tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77419017481463039372018-02-20T07:20:39.860+00:00Dawn's pagesDawn Linneyhttps://plus.google.com/103954743280747187581noreply@blogger.comBlogger234125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7741901748146303937.post-74559793681529694092018-01-21T00:21:00.001+00:002018-01-21T00:21:04.872+00:00A few photos from my daily walks and dips.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Moody morning!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F2IUo09JlLQ/WmPZUBcMG6I/AAAAAAAAF2g/1vaogf5w93QmaxBkFdur-Y6PJ6rl1BRJQCEwYBhgL/s1600/PC100015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F2IUo09JlLQ/WmPZUBcMG6I/AAAAAAAAF2g/1vaogf5w93QmaxBkFdur-Y6PJ6rl1BRJQCEwYBhgL/s640/PC100015.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Winter morning<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XoBpcfJBHMM/WmPZtv4lyvI/AAAAAAAAF2k/qJ9Zjt5vLvM2eGGZk_fflLW0_ou1t2Y8QCEwYBhgL/s1600/PC100014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XoBpcfJBHMM/WmPZtv4lyvI/AAAAAAAAF2k/qJ9Zjt5vLvM2eGGZk_fflLW0_ou1t2Y8QCEwYBhgL/s640/PC100014.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Stormy waters<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZM8pAnnC6CM/WmPaNPWAuJI/AAAAAAAAF2w/afpZ5UXmrsYUy1VBgl1Yos2I-HZ3n7SFgCLcBGAs/s1600/PC100018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZM8pAnnC6CM/WmPaNPWAuJI/AAAAAAAAF2w/afpZ5UXmrsYUy1VBgl1Yos2I-HZ3n7SFgCLcBGAs/s640/PC100018.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />Lumpy seas<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-25BrhZrfuuk/WmPa25pAOeI/AAAAAAAAF3A/mnViDxSnKP4IgNh9T2CcOJZ96-tBTBt7ACLcBGAs/s1600/PC010004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-25BrhZrfuuk/WmPa25pAOeI/AAAAAAAAF3A/mnViDxSnKP4IgNh9T2CcOJZ96-tBTBt7ACLcBGAs/s640/PC010004.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><br />Atmospheric skies<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pn2pm813pf8/WmPbWn2FcKI/AAAAAAAAF3M/XHovoBJwTTEq16NriQ6Bgc-ukIPfrOn9wCLcBGAs/s1600/P1050005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pn2pm813pf8/WmPbWn2FcKI/AAAAAAAAF3M/XHovoBJwTTEq16NriQ6Bgc-ukIPfrOn9wCLcBGAs/s640/P1050005.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><br />Incoming tide<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g2-aXEezK3s/WmPbtDYHcsI/AAAAAAAAF3Q/AiKM_6RPIO45BqxyuRSIBylr_T-OPYFdACLcBGAs/s1600/P1070006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g2-aXEezK3s/WmPbtDYHcsI/AAAAAAAAF3Q/AiKM_6RPIO45BqxyuRSIBylr_T-OPYFdACLcBGAs/s640/P1070006.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />Grey, dreich morning<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JVXhL5qht60/WmPcMkzQ_fI/AAAAAAAAF3g/zZEhUGLAXew5r6XoQKYHHoO0fp-OZwptACLcBGAs/s1600/P1120009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JVXhL5qht60/WmPcMkzQ_fI/AAAAAAAAF3g/zZEhUGLAXew5r6XoQKYHHoO0fp-OZwptACLcBGAs/s640/P1120009.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><br />Swimmers taking the waters<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zE_nZO1PD0s/WmPcdQcTpTI/AAAAAAAAF3k/7g3a95aLX3sW0quKBcukRp_OYKhHflvpQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1140010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zE_nZO1PD0s/WmPcdQcTpTI/AAAAAAAAF3k/7g3a95aLX3sW0quKBcukRp_OYKhHflvpQCLcBGAs/s640/P1140010.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Dawn Linneyhttps://plus.google.com/103954743280747187581noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7741901748146303937.post-5978254729413489022018-01-14T17:45:00.000+00:002018-01-14T17:47:48.396+00:00BorrowdaleThis was a wee trip Mike and I had discussed before Christmas, a winter camp in Borrowdale sometime in January. This was to be a static camp. The Chapel farm campsite in winter, comes close to a wild camp. It is basic, a place to pitch, a tap and a loo, ideal.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TUCY5DVHPUo/WlpmqVpN5WI/AAAAAAAAFz8/NEGOILIztKciZreHPhWFwbix78rSX5IxwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TUCY5DVHPUo/WlpmqVpN5WI/AAAAAAAAFz8/NEGOILIztKciZreHPhWFwbix78rSX5IxwCLcBGAs/s640/P1000113.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>We arrived mid afternoon on the Monday and set up camp. Temperatures dropped to below freezing during the night.Tuesday morning had the promise of being a nice day. Thick swirling clouds roiled and swirled over the high tops, drifting down the hill sides and dispersing.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8E9mN8wAa5Y/Wlt64dRvVeI/AAAAAAAAF0M/qxorwJzJgcAOURzyYleQ2rZgm50NPV8HACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8E9mN8wAa5Y/Wlt64dRvVeI/AAAAAAAAF0M/qxorwJzJgcAOURzyYleQ2rZgm50NPV8HACEwYBhgL/s640/P1000114.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />We headed up to Seathwaite, taking the path that leads up through the slabs by Sourmilk gill. A steep path in places, with one or two scrambly bits. This was enhanced by several ice covered sections of the path..<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p5mp_MJw6d8/Wlt7OfSQrjI/AAAAAAAAF0Q/6ZFtxg0DmPsOqn1YQd5rOwoHtPOfhUPLACLcBGAs/s1600/P1000116.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p5mp_MJw6d8/Wlt7OfSQrjI/AAAAAAAAF0Q/6ZFtxg0DmPsOqn1YQd5rOwoHtPOfhUPLACLcBGAs/s640/P1000116.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Tiptoeing around the icy bits and scrambling up and across the slabs called for a bit of care and a wee bit of undignified&nbsp; scrambling.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pngkNOsb3F4/Wlt8Op63dqI/AAAAAAAAF0c/jN-a3PMaSNAGxRxo8iM2Z372fcNNdleCwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1202" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pngkNOsb3F4/Wlt8Op63dqI/AAAAAAAAF0c/jN-a3PMaSNAGxRxo8iM2Z372fcNNdleCwCLcBGAs/s640/P1000117.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>A chilly breeze kept the temperature down. A pause for a spot of lunch and then it was across semi frozen bog toward Raven Crag.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lGPNRh25f8U/Wlt9aG5o3zI/AAAAAAAAF0o/CpcBY49FekcACkIYjiSoLfhg-dVP44uyQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lGPNRh25f8U/Wlt9aG5o3zI/AAAAAAAAF0o/CpcBY49FekcACkIYjiSoLfhg-dVP44uyQCLcBGAs/s640/P1000118.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />We carefully threaded our way through the jumble of boulders below the crag.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YW6RlJ3OlbQ/Wlt-E-JUvVI/AAAAAAAAF0w/HhukTqThxNQEJ_YYcWIPjgjvbu7Ven58wCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YW6RlJ3OlbQ/Wlt-E-JUvVI/AAAAAAAAF0w/HhukTqThxNQEJ_YYcWIPjgjvbu7Ven58wCEwYBhgL/s640/P1000119.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The weather began to close down on us as we headed over to Seatoller Fell. A steep descent down to the road and then it was back to the campsite.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0hcGzuFauM0/WluQYdDnzFI/AAAAAAAAF1A/rIVuJVlUOjIAChL-Mi8ESqCvBBeBVCPdwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1202" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0hcGzuFauM0/WluQYdDnzFI/AAAAAAAAF1A/rIVuJVlUOjIAChL-Mi8ESqCvBBeBVCPdwCLcBGAs/s640/P1000115.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>It rained Tuesday night, however, by morning the weather was clear. Mike proposed a walk up Langstrath. It was sad to see the state of the campsite at Stonethwaite (closed)&nbsp; Half burnt rubbish, fire pits strewn with empty beer cans and bottles. The place looked a mess.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d3v8OtOa0Zk/WluSHXLKVUI/AAAAAAAAF1M/yh1g5CrLSagMCVbdxXaYf1CtLTIb0MqyACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000120.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d3v8OtOa0Zk/WluSHXLKVUI/AAAAAAAAF1M/yh1g5CrLSagMCVbdxXaYf1CtLTIb0MqyACEwYBhgL/s640/P1000120.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div>Our goal was Black Moss Pot. Quite a well known swimming hole. There were several other pools too, all worthy of a visit.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FrB1hQssKmY/WluSzn9YlKI/AAAAAAAAF1U/lZsqRjISbEUmp8U7VTzyNVUv2pEMv47rgCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000122.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FrB1hQssKmY/WluSzn9YlKI/AAAAAAAAF1U/lZsqRjISbEUmp8U7VTzyNVUv2pEMv47rgCLcBGAs/s640/P1000122.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A pleasant place to stop for a spot of lunch. A return visit is a must. A few easy days of dipping and swimming would be a good idea!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6Z0f18oyuTA/WluTuGCvMMI/AAAAAAAAF1g/FM1Fy_zPpZwU8TWo6uPacDY2KAztbq4VgCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000126.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6Z0f18oyuTA/WluTuGCvMMI/AAAAAAAAF1g/FM1Fy_zPpZwU8TWo6uPacDY2KAztbq4VgCLcBGAs/s640/P1000126.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>We carried on up to the foot bridge and returned back down the Cumbria Way.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tfafbmLY-zc/WluUPVlevYI/AAAAAAAAF1o/vMALnN1bQcQTlF3v4eOwHBE0b8LnOLW6wCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tfafbmLY-zc/WluUPVlevYI/AAAAAAAAF1o/vMALnN1bQcQTlF3v4eOwHBE0b8LnOLW6wCLcBGAs/s640/P1000127.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>It&nbsp; was pleasant to have a day of comparatively&nbsp; low level valley walking. Mind! I did have to stop and have a breather on the way back.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WcyONjK7Hsg/WluU8dZZbkI/AAAAAAAAF10/93GLJGwki3Q2hc5miBdMsifrOUQL9mdNQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WcyONjK7Hsg/WluU8dZZbkI/AAAAAAAAF10/93GLJGwki3Q2hc5miBdMsifrOUQL9mdNQCLcBGAs/s640/P1000128.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>.It had been a good couple of days of walking. Mike is much fitter than me and to be honest, I was a tad tired by the end of Wednesday. Also, my photos, for whatever reason, never came out that well. Mike's&nbsp; photos are far more superior,&nbsp;<a href="http://northernpies.blogspot.co.uk/">northernpies.blogspot.co.uk</a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ogGl8tiwdzQ/WluWZXkVCuI/AAAAAAAAF2A/RV71Pgk-pVMpO-ZYu74jGU_qdywBNZjJACLcBGAs/s1600/P1000129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ogGl8tiwdzQ/WluWZXkVCuI/AAAAAAAAF2A/RV71Pgk-pVMpO-ZYu74jGU_qdywBNZjJACLcBGAs/s640/P1000129.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qoRfGRefgPA/WluWhSQgDgI/AAAAAAAAF2E/foLyx1a5_bEYkvGD__JrhfiGpqULaFULwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qoRfGRefgPA/WluWhSQgDgI/AAAAAAAAF2E/foLyx1a5_bEYkvGD__JrhfiGpqULaFULwCLcBGAs/s640/P1000130.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>All in all, a pleasant trip..<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div>Dawn Linneyhttps://plus.google.com/103954743280747187581noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7741901748146303937.post-81758688716003815472018-01-01T10:28:00.000+00:002018-01-01T10:28:27.722+00:00Cairngorm interludeWith Christmas looming ever closer, it was time to be away. It is not the best time of the year for me. Ticket prices and train times dictated when I could travel. Thus it was that on the Friday prior to Christmas I set off.&nbsp; The train journey up to Aberdeen was something of a nightmare. The train being packed solid with folk heading north. Fortunately the train was only slightly late getting in and I caught my bus connection on to Braemar.<br />The bunkhouse I have used previously was full right through the Christmas period. The Braemar Lodge hotel also had bunkhouse accommodation and that was my stopover for the night. Surprisingly it was empty! A quick visit to the local Co'op sorted out supper. A few bits of food at knocked down prices where added to the 'just in case' bag. Not feeling too good, saw me having an early night. Coming up on the train I had come close to falling over twice, not good!<br />Setting off in the morning, I was still not feeling right. A strong headwind gusting down the glen did not help. With energy levels rapidly dropping, a break was had for a snack at Inverey. Thin, mizzly rain was now starting to drift in. My intention to head up to the head of Glen Ey was abandoned. A spot for the tent was found near Auchelle.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4A_nTjrnw7w/Wkkdr6Bu8tI/AAAAAAAAFyU/vwIUAQR3n3czRDc2gwpLbW12gFqCMwBQQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000097.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4A_nTjrnw7w/Wkkdr6Bu8tI/AAAAAAAAFyU/vwIUAQR3n3czRDc2gwpLbW12gFqCMwBQQCLcBGAs/s640/P1000097.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Grey, sweeping curtains of rain where now scudding down the glen. With heavy rocks placed on the tent pegs, I tumbled in to the tent. With everything set up inside and a brew on, the world felt a better place.<br />Come Sunday morning, after a fitful night, the wind and rain continued. Time was spent drinking tea, snoozing and reading. Things quietened down by the afternoon and I went for a stroll up the glen.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5cKTj7Sev1g/WklNuDRMujI/AAAAAAAAFyk/LqZiABe733YCXeLpN0aTU7oz7FsrMdvMQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5cKTj7Sev1g/WklNuDRMujI/AAAAAAAAFyk/LqZiABe733YCXeLpN0aTU7oz7FsrMdvMQCLcBGAs/s640/P1000098.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>More rain, with sleet and hail, saw me heading back to the tent. Monday was a repeat performance, the one difference was that now the rain had turned to wet snow.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZHv1DN18z7U/WklOfOppISI/AAAAAAAAFys/FABfupzwxyUJ72rGW-62PymOU2tRuYP8ACLcBGAs/s1600/P1000100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZHv1DN18z7U/WklOfOppISI/AAAAAAAAFys/FABfupzwxyUJ72rGW-62PymOU2tRuYP8ACLcBGAs/s640/P1000100.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Tuesday was another day of freezing rain, sleet and then snow. Toward evening the temperature began to drop. Icy patches began to form on the tent flysheet. At sometime or another an obviously hungry mouse had nibbled a hole through the inner tent. Hopefully it found enough to eat after all that effort!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9ToWH_YaGEg/WkoHwXe7K-I/AAAAAAAAFy8/eicyWj5kTk0Gj1TPJG1xR7fR5xKMPVm4QCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9ToWH_YaGEg/WkoHwXe7K-I/AAAAAAAAFy8/eicyWj5kTk0Gj1TPJG1xR7fR5xKMPVm4QCLcBGAs/s640/P1000103.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />It snowed for a while on Tuesday and then the temperature really began to drop. The water bladders began to freeze. The fly sheet became icy and I snuggled down in the tent with a cuppa and my kindle.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WuNrYf2tQOQ/WkoIrYOq8UI/AAAAAAAAFzI/FtKErwJfkcEZCqo3WZATI9WKtuYITB59gCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WuNrYf2tQOQ/WkoIrYOq8UI/AAAAAAAAFzI/FtKErwJfkcEZCqo3WZATI9WKtuYITB59gCLcBGAs/s640/P1000107.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>It was a slow start to Wednesday. There was no big hurry to get back down to Braemar. Packing up I removed the inner from the flysheet which meant everything was stowed away dry accept the semi frozen fly.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MXS_l8mhRL8/WkoJ97dEsrI/AAAAAAAAFzU/MMo-SzPbkUQQyrsaJ-Q89VAqVRqTDlqigCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MXS_l8mhRL8/WkoJ97dEsrI/AAAAAAAAFzU/MMo-SzPbkUQQyrsaJ-Q89VAqVRqTDlqigCLcBGAs/s640/P1000105.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>It was then just a case of the walk out and booking back in to the bunkhouse for the night. Once more, it was empty accept for me.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sv9wyhqrkU4/WkoKol2i6WI/AAAAAAAAFzc/85O4vyANL9o55hKBE-ql0otx4FFrV-IswCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sv9wyhqrkU4/WkoKol2i6WI/AAAAAAAAFzc/85O4vyANL9o55hKBE-ql0otx4FFrV-IswCLcBGAs/s640/P1000110.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1R1qR-NLUOA/WkoKzTf4ZuI/AAAAAAAAFzg/YDN4CEjVkF4etI3Hg-3AHQI6uxyhOotdQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1R1qR-NLUOA/WkoKzTf4ZuI/AAAAAAAAFzg/YDN4CEjVkF4etI3Hg-3AHQI6uxyhOotdQCLcBGAs/s640/P1000111.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Snow showers on the way back to Braemar.Dawn Linneyhttps://plus.google.com/103954743280747187581noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7741901748146303937.post-59691001061695523922017-12-16T14:44:00.000+00:002017-12-16T14:44:46.248+00:00Cheviot wanderRecently Mike purchased an all singing, dancing winter sleeping bag. Of course now it had to be tried out in suitable conditions!<br />A trip to the Cheviots was planned. Given the sub zero temperatures being forecast, it looked as if were in luck.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jlskgxsoLeg/WjUttLVFIGI/AAAAAAAAFw0/V0By4L7yMUMYIUskE52hKYiCoG7Y1HeCgCEwYBhgL/s1600/PC110001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jlskgxsoLeg/WjUttLVFIGI/AAAAAAAAFw0/V0By4L7yMUMYIUskE52hKYiCoG7Y1HeCgCEwYBhgL/s640/PC110001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />&nbsp;It was a gentle walk in and finding a suitable spot that was fairly level, had gorse and thorn bushes to offer a modicum of shelter and with running water close by we set up camp.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lE50cfuv72E/WjUn4C5jPGI/AAAAAAAAFwQ/s2bL7EoiDSwvXMtrxVYqgLdgli-cjDGJwCLcBGAs/s1600/PC110002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lE50cfuv72E/WjUn4C5jPGI/AAAAAAAAFwQ/s2bL7EoiDSwvXMtrxVYqgLdgli-cjDGJwCLcBGAs/s640/PC110002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>It was still fairly early in the day and the rest of the afternoon was spent drinking tea, snoozing and reading. There was a smattering of snow, sleet and freezing rain during the night. In the early hours of the morning the temperature plummeted. My water containers had ice in them. The tent froze, condensation on the inside and moisture on the outside of the flysheet meant that the tent was rigid with ice, interesting?<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vW0Iss7eEBw/WjUp_xzz9iI/AAAAAAAAFwc/HnDFYqVRQxw9zssAbQ8BScPW2Fxk7Kn6gCLcBGAs/s1600/PC120003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vW0Iss7eEBw/WjUp_xzz9iI/AAAAAAAAFwc/HnDFYqVRQxw9zssAbQ8BScPW2Fxk7Kn6gCLcBGAs/s640/PC120003.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Having found a suitable spot for the tents, we decided to stay put, do a round of a few local hills with a light pack and return. Unfortunately I was forced to turn back after almost fainting. Blood pressure problems. At differing times in the past I have had both high and low blood pressure. Mike continued on while I headed back to the tent. Very frustrating, I had been looking forward to that walk. Mike returned early afternoon and an easy afternoon was had by all.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kQf6_nNnRog/WjUsrHA6czI/AAAAAAAAFwo/qp9qQZxdpq8o_WsuBGaSAIzdHEfEGeX3ACLcBGAs/s1600/PC120004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kQf6_nNnRog/WjUsrHA6czI/AAAAAAAAFwo/qp9qQZxdpq8o_WsuBGaSAIzdHEfEGeX3ACLcBGAs/s640/PC120004.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Tuesday saw the temperature rising and by Wednesday the weather was on the change. We walked back to the College valley by a circular route. Freezing rain, hail and wet sleet came sweeping in and a second breakfast in Wooler seemed a good idea. More winter trips are in the pipeline.<br /><br />A few photos from my daily perambulations.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ay-MNLzd9cs/WjUuwDLaWDI/AAAAAAAAFxA/msaYlyZrqY4O3YJBg4RZ3jPSBYuszBi8gCLcBGAs/s1600/PC100014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ay-MNLzd9cs/WjUuwDLaWDI/AAAAAAAAFxA/msaYlyZrqY4O3YJBg4RZ3jPSBYuszBi8gCLcBGAs/s640/PC100014.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iOzh2iauRY0/WjUu6gNyzoI/AAAAAAAAFxE/qAZXt_QViZA8VlPkoiPPebqyoKR62pJpACLcBGAs/s1600/PC100015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iOzh2iauRY0/WjUu6gNyzoI/AAAAAAAAFxE/qAZXt_QViZA8VlPkoiPPebqyoKR62pJpACLcBGAs/s640/PC100015.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S4yf36jyfMc/WjUvJVCETXI/AAAAAAAAFxI/cCYQZ5Lm9xEt8yVmtkLHLSr0pJp24UxLQCLcBGAs/s1600/PC100017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S4yf36jyfMc/WjUvJVCETXI/AAAAAAAAFxI/cCYQZ5Lm9xEt8yVmtkLHLSr0pJp24UxLQCLcBGAs/s640/PC100017.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-krkodj1tYiY/WjUvXlYHKwI/AAAAAAAAFxQ/akjn0dzuJDE4W_k5xw6nE7YRt25BnKbbgCLcBGAs/s1600/PC100018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-krkodj1tYiY/WjUvXlYHKwI/AAAAAAAAFxQ/akjn0dzuJDE4W_k5xw6nE7YRt25BnKbbgCLcBGAs/s640/PC100018.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jr6gUwvtS_I/WjUvl6ymvJI/AAAAAAAAFxU/N__JsvKUP7cK8YkdWu2enmDI7JIheE4NwCLcBGAs/s1600/PC030007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jr6gUwvtS_I/WjUvl6ymvJI/AAAAAAAAFxU/N__JsvKUP7cK8YkdWu2enmDI7JIheE4NwCLcBGAs/s640/PC030007.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tZkNGz8NrdM/WjUv0riB39I/AAAAAAAAFxY/9-LifQNrh7II-YKav3esS84PfFcg0A8CACLcBGAs/s1600/PC080008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tZkNGz8NrdM/WjUv0riB39I/AAAAAAAAFxY/9-LifQNrh7II-YKav3esS84PfFcg0A8CACLcBGAs/s640/PC080008.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9ICscKNwJvg/WjUwEp6TOBI/AAAAAAAAFxg/ijLSctKi2jEh1mfsdMlDIoyhV1U8hc98gCLcBGAs/s1600/PC080013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9ICscKNwJvg/WjUwEp6TOBI/AAAAAAAAFxg/ijLSctKi2jEh1mfsdMlDIoyhV1U8hc98gCLcBGAs/s640/PC080013.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZOZ7kJ5h68g/WjUwyG1TwsI/AAAAAAAAFxs/XJlwQz85HUwiQjmXFM5aYwzYso7qU1a-QCLcBGAs/s1600/PC010002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZOZ7kJ5h68g/WjUwyG1TwsI/AAAAAAAAFxs/XJlwQz85HUwiQjmXFM5aYwzYso7qU1a-QCLcBGAs/s640/PC010002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Dawn Linneyhttps://plus.google.com/103954743280747187581noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7741901748146303937.post-40692882191882352632017-11-28T19:50:00.001+00:002017-11-28T19:53:10.364+00:00Quiet interludeThings have been quiet here on the eastern coast. My swimming has continued, although of late it is more of a dip than a swim. This is partly due to a few early winter storms. It can be a tad intimidating, even in the shallows, when the big rollers come crashing in.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CtY1HW_B35c/Whhx-tB1l0I/AAAAAAAAFuM/CVHT4NQDsPkN3dEQ3iY-YpXvCPO8GgsKACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0922.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CtY1HW_B35c/Whhx-tB1l0I/AAAAAAAAFuM/CVHT4NQDsPkN3dEQ3iY-YpXvCPO8GgsKACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0922.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Grey morning, surf building up.<br /><br />Mind, it is getting chillier. A week or so back I took part in a small charity event in Boulmer. Part of the do involved a swim in the sea. There was a blustery north wind whipping through the car park were we got changed. Temperatures were given as 3 degrees. Sea temperatures were rated at seven degrees. A few of us opted for a dip, just to show willing. A case of in, get wet, a quick dip and out. Hot soup and such were very welcome afterwards.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XwLtveTJg3g/Whhz6I94hPI/AAAAAAAAFuY/vQUSfLiLb6UtZGdp4LhvE1fjjjiFAgKvgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0925.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XwLtveTJg3g/Whhz6I94hPI/AAAAAAAAFuY/vQUSfLiLb6UtZGdp4LhvE1fjjjiFAgKvgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0925.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Receding tide, Boulmer.<br /><br />Mike, Lucky, the intrepid dog and myself gave up any idea of spending a night on Lindisfarne. Parking restrictions every which way. Instead we spent a night at Ross Back Sands. Quite a chilly one too.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-usqNV5zVpWY/Wh25OILT_gI/AAAAAAAAFu4/k3HNeJZKSmYBcFCEQCQSejyP0EVr-B6RgCLcBGAs/s1600/P1010694.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1063" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-usqNV5zVpWY/Wh25OILT_gI/AAAAAAAAFu4/k3HNeJZKSmYBcFCEQCQSejyP0EVr-B6RgCLcBGAs/s640/P1010694.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Driftwood.<br /><br />Recently I have upped my miles a wee bit when walking over for a swim. The average mileage was roughly seven miles. Now I sometimes increase it to ten.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wfwRXpbV298/Wh26YxQD6pI/AAAAAAAAFvI/Z9z6hdRl6rkohcnqIrS9Mh1VD-J_0v9awCLcBGAs/s1600/P1010698.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1063" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wfwRXpbV298/Wh26YxQD6pI/AAAAAAAAFvI/Z9z6hdRl6rkohcnqIrS9Mh1VD-J_0v9awCLcBGAs/s640/P1010698.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Cozy dog!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5fRM7OJgjFU/Wh26qvDTKLI/AAAAAAAAFvM/b24hw5KEkEoxOigpODMZpbT_WirXBW7pACLcBGAs/s1600/PB280013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5fRM7OJgjFU/Wh26qvDTKLI/AAAAAAAAFvM/b24hw5KEkEoxOigpODMZpbT_WirXBW7pACLcBGAs/s640/PB280013.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CFkeQN2rPGw/Wh26z76B5rI/AAAAAAAAFvQ/Dz331pZKD5kj_arX_fT7OQKuJwcz1s_igCLcBGAs/s1600/PB280014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CFkeQN2rPGw/Wh26z76B5rI/AAAAAAAAFvQ/Dz331pZKD5kj_arX_fT7OQKuJwcz1s_igCLcBGAs/s640/PB280014.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Fishing boat, Blyth harbour.<br /><br />There is little else to report. A couple of winter trips are in the pipeline. Winter gear is being sorted out. With frequent cold northerly winds sweeping the east coast, warmer clothing is called for. Friday is the first day of December and I shall be in for at least a quick dip.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UlhXYzGkVIY/Wh28MBYFtnI/AAAAAAAAFvc/CN3Z6s-cht8M1NgyHqi-W3kEL0xfz3oiQCLcBGAs/s1600/PB280015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UlhXYzGkVIY/Wh28MBYFtnI/AAAAAAAAFvc/CN3Z6s-cht8M1NgyHqi-W3kEL0xfz3oiQCLcBGAs/s640/PB280015.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp;Stormy skies.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SURnSyspPyI/Wh28ZPee2jI/AAAAAAAAFvg/LPoqib1Uh-k7nbJi0edF7_QZdlbLkk9RgCLcBGAs/s1600/PB280016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SURnSyspPyI/Wh28ZPee2jI/AAAAAAAAFvg/LPoqib1Uh-k7nbJi0edF7_QZdlbLkk9RgCLcBGAs/s640/PB280016.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EWqzw7dnwac/Wh28n8egubI/AAAAAAAAFvo/09__TDOUrCs_IaV2OUJNABUy3OtXTBcYwCEwYBhgL/s1600/PB280018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EWqzw7dnwac/Wh28n8egubI/AAAAAAAAFvo/09__TDOUrCs_IaV2OUJNABUy3OtXTBcYwCEwYBhgL/s640/PB280018.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A heavy surf, big rollers breaking on the beach.Dawn Linneyhttps://plus.google.com/103954743280747187581noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7741901748146303937.post-5701762919124688312017-09-26T15:34:00.000+01:002017-09-26T15:34:07.959+01:00Skinny dip plus.Things have been somewhat quite on my front recently. Most of my walking has been local walks. Some walks, around five or six miles, have been combined with a swim.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sd6SNTsR1f8/WcpWOGpsz5I/AAAAAAAAFrg/hJKeMDnGub0no4QbbS4RLqiv-6kYJ2JigCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sd6SNTsR1f8/WcpWOGpsz5I/AAAAAAAAFrg/hJKeMDnGub0no4QbbS4RLqiv-6kYJ2JigCEwYBhgL/s640/P1010001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>After a layoff of many years, I find myself to be somewhat weak swimmer and lack confidence. However, I persist<br />Over the last week I found myself in a couple of challenging dips. Big seas and large rollers.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-42pJtJwvj94/WcpXb09KtOI/AAAAAAAAFrs/iAn4Gqah6lAvtYjVhtqrHw5MmnDy5K9NgCLcBGAs/s1600/P1010003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-42pJtJwvj94/WcpXb09KtOI/AAAAAAAAFrs/iAn4Gqah6lAvtYjVhtqrHw5MmnDy5K9NgCLcBGAs/s640/P1010003.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>On those occasions i stayed in the shallows, playing tag with the crashing waves.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sq8O_I6zIgE/WcpX6sA98AI/AAAAAAAAFrw/pOKNuqbiDeQLM2sy6IazXtIlSmK4qTA8ACLcBGAs/s1600/P1010005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sq8O_I6zIgE/WcpX6sA98AI/AAAAAAAAFrw/pOKNuqbiDeQLM2sy6IazXtIlSmK4qTA8ACLcBGAs/s640/P1010005.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Wednesday evening saw me going in with the&nbsp; swimming club. Friday, early morning, around six forty AM, saw me joining a few club members for an Autumnal Equinox swim. Chilly but a beautiful morning. In a mad moment, I then participated in the club's normal Friday swim at eleven in the morning.. it was a case then of nipping back to the flat to finish packing. Mike and I were off to Ross Back Sands for our annual pre skinny dip bivi.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j4TjUBh--ew/WcpjPYkwEnI/AAAAAAAAFs4/j_M0xUjHaasAnZh3lH_FAH8GULUR-nZbgCEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN0905.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j4TjUBh--ew/WcpjPYkwEnI/AAAAAAAAFs4/j_M0xUjHaasAnZh3lH_FAH8GULUR-nZbgCEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN0905.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tcw0-Jj0UgY/WcpaopZMe6I/AAAAAAAAFsA/AXtxU4mdYzk5-06tG3IXC0KcQmAae3IHwCLcBGAs/s1600/P9230001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tcw0-Jj0UgY/WcpaopZMe6I/AAAAAAAAFsA/AXtxU4mdYzk5-06tG3IXC0KcQmAae3IHwCLcBGAs/s640/P9230001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The Saturday was largely spent drinking&nbsp; tea, reading and maybe a spot of snoozing. Mike and Lucky headed off for a wee walk while I stayed with our stuff.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b3AiPlNXZ0E/Wcpb0fNjSsI/AAAAAAAAFsM/aaEoPkLbwqkLmcBwws7pG5FZMX4Pl3n5gCEwYBhgL/s1600/P9230002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b3AiPlNXZ0E/Wcpb0fNjSsI/AAAAAAAAFsM/aaEoPkLbwqkLmcBwws7pG5FZMX4Pl3n5gCEwYBhgL/s640/P9230002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>On his return, Mike went for a dip. Over the last few days I had been experiencing a few problems with my balance and my legs have given out once or twice. Possibly this is due to a recent increase in my medications? Wanting to make sure I was ok for the skinny dip, I avoided doing anything strenuous and that included swimming.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k2Vq-rniww0/WcpdN83ABaI/AAAAAAAAFsw/kBfJeBa6G7gCHRwWzQ87-yYc3C29GGoTQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P9230003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k2Vq-rniww0/WcpdN83ABaI/AAAAAAAAFsw/kBfJeBa6G7gCHRwWzQ87-yYc3C29GGoTQCEwYBhgL/s640/P9230003.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0WfEtBed920/Wcpdh5w0k8I/AAAAAAAAFsc/1V1cFWx68N45JU66tRr9ZROCXVUF2VxlQCLcBGAs/s1600/P9230004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0WfEtBed920/Wcpdh5w0k8I/AAAAAAAAFsc/1V1cFWx68N45JU66tRr9ZROCXVUF2VxlQCLcBGAs/s640/P9230004.JPG" width="640" /></a>It was pleasant bivi though, despite a bit of condensation. Our day was enlivened by the flights of geese passing overhead. Skein after skein filling the sky. The air loud with their gabbling and chatter.<br />.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-82sT6F91xW8/Wcpds9xrWaI/AAAAAAAAFsg/ZhH6nDFgVxIX8e0QmHF06hneKqu7aV1ngCLcBGAs/s1600/P9230005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-82sT6F91xW8/Wcpds9xrWaI/AAAAAAAAFsg/ZhH6nDFgVxIX8e0QmHF06hneKqu7aV1ngCLcBGAs/s320/P9230005.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Driftwood<br />Saturday afternoon saw us setting up camp at Druridge Bay in&nbsp; preparation for the dip in the morning.<br />A night of little sleep, quite a few folk like to party. However, Mike and I were conscious by five in&nbsp; the morning.&nbsp; A cup of tea and in the early, pre dawn light we headed off to the beach. Crowds were already crowding the narrow strip of beach. The tide was high and there was a bit of a swell.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5RdH-iSVsiw/WcphWT7W_9I/AAAAAAAAFso/Y-V3kWjFI_onhgequgPJ8MySYovInBaGwCLcBGAs/s1600/P9240009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5RdH-iSVsiw/WcphWT7W_9I/AAAAAAAAFso/Y-V3kWjFI_onhgequgPJ8MySYovInBaGwCLcBGAs/s640/P9240009.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>As the sun peeped over the horizon everyone stripped and hundreds of naked bodies hurled themselves in to the briny. Shrieks of laughter and cheers filled the air. It was a good dip, one I enjoyed. My actual time in the water was not that long, roughly between fifteen to twenty minutes. Unfortunately I did not manage much on the photo front. Mike, over on&nbsp;<a href="http://northernpies.blogspot.co.uk/">northernpies.blogspot.co.uk</a>, has far better photos.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PgwnXoht568/Wcpi0-PqlFI/AAAAAAAAFs0/Lldrr3HbGp85l8XK6pM8KhNDs2XBSFlTwCLcBGAs/s1600/P9240010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PgwnXoht568/Wcpi0-PqlFI/AAAAAAAAFs0/Lldrr3HbGp85l8XK6pM8KhNDs2XBSFlTwCLcBGAs/s640/P9240010.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>All in all, it was good fun. A big thank you Mike.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x09prYlg8Ek/WcpjYBxRJpI/AAAAAAAAFs8/OQvyinX2MtITvBRwGsYugKhCo_ZxDSgrwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0911.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x09prYlg8Ek/WcpjYBxRJpI/AAAAAAAAFs8/OQvyinX2MtITvBRwGsYugKhCo_ZxDSgrwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0911.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Just to round things off, today's conditions for swimming. Also, with a falling tide, A fairly large&nbsp; swell was running.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div>Dawn Linneyhttps://plus.google.com/103954743280747187581noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7741901748146303937.post-21776298206029672902017-09-11T16:26:00.002+01:002017-09-11T16:28:18.828+01:00Lleyn PeninsulaRecently John Jocys, re JJ, a squeezebox virtuoso &nbsp;from the depths of Manchester, had spent some time backpacking on the Lleyn Peninsula. Impressed by the rugged scenery, he planned a return visit. This time Mike, LTD, (Lucky The Dog) and myself were invited along. After a flurry of e mails, dates and times were agreed upon. John was bringing his caravan and we had agreed to meet up in the village of Llanystumdwy. Mike and I arrived mid afternoon in the village. Checking out the caravan site designated by John, we found he had not yet arrived. Further enquiries indicated he had not booked either. Despite a very poor signal, Mike managed to contact John, he was still on his way. We decided to check out another caravan and campsite in the village. Not marked on the map, with less facilities than the larger one, but cheaper too. That is were we ended up.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z3WtU3egdF0/WbVUGje_yiI/AAAAAAAAFm0/urkqBH8NqzQOF0kjwkAt7EdMW7ZHE7ddQCLcBGAs/s1600/P9040001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z3WtU3egdF0/WbVUGje_yiI/AAAAAAAAFm0/urkqBH8NqzQOF0kjwkAt7EdMW7ZHE7ddQCLcBGAs/s640/P9040001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp; Lunch break stop on the way to Wales.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zibE--CkrOg/WbVUZER6AmI/AAAAAAAAFm4/cntHCYStr44Jxk5qWe8mh-lhp260kwEMgCLcBGAs/s1600/P9040002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zibE--CkrOg/WbVUZER6AmI/AAAAAAAAFm4/cntHCYStr44Jxk5qWe8mh-lhp260kwEMgCLcBGAs/s640/P9040002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Looking over toward the Mersey.<br />It began to rain as we set up camp and we retired to JJ's caravan for tea. The rain, heavy at times continued all night and on through the morning. The original intention had been to leave the cars and caravan on the site while we spent a few days backpacking. The rain saw those plans being scrapped.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o9gAZBQ_5ho/WbVVrvMv_PI/AAAAAAAAFnA/ThEJ0vCLXL0ZE8c_dFi9zUH1kssuvDaNQCLcBGAs/s1600/P9050004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o9gAZBQ_5ho/WbVVrvMv_PI/AAAAAAAAFnA/ThEJ0vCLXL0ZE8c_dFi9zUH1kssuvDaNQCLcBGAs/s640/P9050004.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0qZuDotilmI/WbVV1iuUQmI/AAAAAAAAFnE/PVROFeZgUhUHlyQkOFyz34gZQGsz3zDLgCLcBGAs/s1600/P9050005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0qZuDotilmI/WbVV1iuUQmI/AAAAAAAAFnE/PVROFeZgUhUHlyQkOFyz34gZQGsz3zDLgCLcBGAs/s640/P9050005.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A very swollen river by the campsite.<br />The decision was made to go for linear walks instead. By early Tuesday afternoon we set of in light drizzle. Leaving one car in Llanbedrog, we then headed on to Abersoch. From there we &nbsp;headed back, starting with a lovely beach walk.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nETcsjxo_Iw/WbY_hpXoJpI/AAAAAAAAFng/O4mUkI1HrXQaXH44CXM6Jt6T9xcfASkmACLcBGAs/s1600/P9050007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nETcsjxo_Iw/WbY_hpXoJpI/AAAAAAAAFng/O4mUkI1HrXQaXH44CXM6Jt6T9xcfASkmACLcBGAs/s640/P9050007.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Stranded jelly fish<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bRRzPHHDnxw/WbZAD76rEAI/AAAAAAAAFno/lJ6wfkdEJL0CvnTpOitPC-2DdIVhWy93ACEwYBhgL/s1600/P9050008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bRRzPHHDnxw/WbZAD76rEAI/AAAAAAAAFno/lJ6wfkdEJL0CvnTpOitPC-2DdIVhWy93ACEwYBhgL/s640/P9050008.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A lovely beach stroll.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It was then a steady walk up a leafy lane, turning off to head up to Mynydd Tir y Cwmwd.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7LjN_u2RJbw/WbZBUlOoiJI/AAAAAAAAFn0/3W_eGULyR0wcV_KXrXLCyTtY0zEPxsbiwCLcBGAs/s1600/P9050009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7LjN_u2RJbw/WbZBUlOoiJI/AAAAAAAAFn0/3W_eGULyR0wcV_KXrXLCyTtY0zEPxsbiwCLcBGAs/s640/P9050009.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">View back toward Abersoch.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The rain had stopped as we approached the trig point. The sun filtered through the clouds. A bench provided an excellent place to sit, enjoy lunch and admire the wide open vistas.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cfC8rHSo3p4/WbZCTpJgrqI/AAAAAAAAFoA/fF8N8ZN4-NU1IhDAXTKVwHMGALlVJrpmwCLcBGAs/s1600/P9050010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cfC8rHSo3p4/WbZCTpJgrqI/AAAAAAAAFoA/fF8N8ZN4-NU1IhDAXTKVwHMGALlVJrpmwCLcBGAs/s640/P9050010.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A long, steady descent saw us heading back to Llanbedrog. Once more the views were excellent.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NKvNWMTrrxc/WbZC7ZW_PcI/AAAAAAAAFoI/fUQ2mchhU00ZJ0UT5j6NhCNiorD6pg3DQCLcBGAs/s1600/P9050011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NKvNWMTrrxc/WbZC7ZW_PcI/AAAAAAAAFoI/fUQ2mchhU00ZJ0UT5j6NhCNiorD6pg3DQCLcBGAs/s640/P9050011.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Llanbedrog is well worth a visit.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vHi0eMWI7oM/WbZDcIr2AkI/AAAAAAAAFoQ/Mbg_Sj0JoNoqJHfII6GLLQG3-Xr0UBFAgCLcBGAs/s1600/P9050015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vHi0eMWI7oM/WbZDcIr2AkI/AAAAAAAAFoQ/Mbg_Sj0JoNoqJHfII6GLLQG3-Xr0UBFAgCLcBGAs/s640/P9050015.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The tide goes out a long way here.<br />Wednesday saw us navigating down very narrow roads to leave one car at Aberdaron and the other at Whistling Sands, our starting point.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_b1JCcDeP7w/WbaUFGMuMNI/AAAAAAAAFos/m4tF9clHECEoiDhYvioA0BYTHQCft3r1QCLcBGAs/s1600/P9060019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_b1JCcDeP7w/WbaUFGMuMNI/AAAAAAAAFos/m4tF9clHECEoiDhYvioA0BYTHQCft3r1QCLcBGAs/s640/P9060019.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The first thing we found was that the coast path signs were, at times inaccurate and vague. Some pointed in the wrong direction, others had us struggling to make sense of their directions. The maps and the actual signing often at odds with each other.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mvZcRRYsBZk/WbaVxfJM1NI/AAAAAAAAFo4/2GmjmAMjVwY8IDE4DO469jLMn8ZqTLOsACLcBGAs/s1600/P9060020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mvZcRRYsBZk/WbaVxfJM1NI/AAAAAAAAFo4/2GmjmAMjVwY8IDE4DO469jLMn8ZqTLOsACLcBGAs/s640/P9060020.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp;There was a blustery wind blowing but the views were excellent.. The countryside here is reminiscent of Cornwall. Small fields enclosed with earth and stone walls, all laid out in a higgledy piggledy fashion.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KaU1O8E--JA/WbaXFQIzr0I/AAAAAAAAFpE/JiONCsIQj_Atkla9IRyGqEUXJKJp9OpBACLcBGAs/s1600/P9060021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KaU1O8E--JA/WbaXFQIzr0I/AAAAAAAAFpE/JiONCsIQj_Atkla9IRyGqEUXJKJp9OpBACLcBGAs/s640/P9060021.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Following the coastline here does mean a fair degree of ascent and descent.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OSXSb1hRKjA/WbaXsLOr4YI/AAAAAAAAFpI/cbeVTQFCI-MnmOPllL0IT-jg3_Gt5Q7uQCLcBGAs/s1600/P9060022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OSXSb1hRKjA/WbaXsLOr4YI/AAAAAAAAFpI/cbeVTQFCI-MnmOPllL0IT-jg3_Gt5Q7uQCLcBGAs/s640/P9060022.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Mike having a map reading tiz on Mount Pleasant?? Lucky just chills though!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-10syt_i3uWw/WbaYk6VlZ8I/AAAAAAAAFpM/_M-vdAcQuEwU75nb3DqNiNdzbLCh97WagCLcBGAs/s1600/P9060023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-10syt_i3uWw/WbaYk6VlZ8I/AAAAAAAAFpM/_M-vdAcQuEwU75nb3DqNiNdzbLCh97WagCLcBGAs/s640/P9060023.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A variety of fungus were quite prolific in many areas.<br />On the last couple of miles, with time getting on, we abandoned out attempts to follow the coast path, taking to the road back to Aberdaron. <br />Thursday saw us using just the one car. Our destination was Rhiw. Initially we started off following a sign posted circular route. However, we wandered off for a lovely wee scrambly walk up a rocky rib. There is actually a path marked on the map. Faint on the ground though. A hill fort and hut circles are marked on the map in the area of Mynydd y Graig.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HLDqTv3i8vo/WbagpLYnbII/AAAAAAAAFpg/lxTrm9Y2dIoV89n5f_T9Ibmggv27uvdAACLcBGAs/s1600/P9070026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HLDqTv3i8vo/WbagpLYnbII/AAAAAAAAFpg/lxTrm9Y2dIoV89n5f_T9Ibmggv27uvdAACLcBGAs/s640/P9070026.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>We follow a bouldery rib.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gwk7sWP9MuE/Wbag6PSQ81I/AAAAAAAAFpk/Y_e1QiblY9AiLXza9XNe8ecfTQlBpqU5wCLcBGAs/s1600/P9070027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gwk7sWP9MuE/Wbag6PSQ81I/AAAAAAAAFpk/Y_e1QiblY9AiLXza9XNe8ecfTQlBpqU5wCLcBGAs/s640/P9070027.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Heading up through the rocks.<br />Our meandering led us up to the trigpoint on Mynydd Penarfynydd.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rTqjweullQY/WbahtaJUWeI/AAAAAAAAFpo/Pdah6NHsjasLBM01mUpwr5nWpvkBK-z3wCLcBGAs/s1600/P9070031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rTqjweullQY/WbahtaJUWeI/AAAAAAAAFpo/Pdah6NHsjasLBM01mUpwr5nWpvkBK-z3wCLcBGAs/s640/P9070031.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp;We headed back following part of the coastal path. A fine walk.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pz0K2Q2Rrlc/Wbaii_PZHCI/AAAAAAAAFps/_8kjA1u3noUVTUjdqPERta2QUvTfpstZQCLcBGAs/s1600/P9070029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pz0K2Q2Rrlc/Wbaii_PZHCI/AAAAAAAAFps/_8kjA1u3noUVTUjdqPERta2QUvTfpstZQCLcBGAs/s640/P9070029.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>All week I had been hoping to fit in a swim. Having finished our walk early, we headed off to Porth Neigwl. Hell's Mouth in English. A westerly wind was blowing directly onshore. Large breakers were rolling in from quite a &nbsp;way out. Notices warned of dangerous currents and rip tides. It did not feel safe to risk going in on my own. Mike and I settled for a paddle instead.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sK4Q1_GHps0/Wbaj3KLOAEI/AAAAAAAAFp8/IWIMmru8lPsMCCR0RKXymICjM7FHOQNLACLcBGAs/s1600/P9070032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sK4Q1_GHps0/Wbaj3KLOAEI/AAAAAAAAFp8/IWIMmru8lPsMCCR0RKXymICjM7FHOQNLACLcBGAs/s640/P9070032.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The bay, Hell's Mouth.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B9R08H-7qiQ/WbakGbubAQI/AAAAAAAAFqA/wo6Xjz7sNHY3mBLsx-7R_tiYPO9oIIpPQCLcBGAs/s1600/P9070033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B9R08H-7qiQ/WbakGbubAQI/AAAAAAAAFqA/wo6Xjz7sNHY3mBLsx-7R_tiYPO9oIIpPQCLcBGAs/s640/P9070033.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>On Friday it was just a case of packing up and heading home. Many thanks to John for the use of his caravan as a tea drinking, food cooking and eating base. Thanks too for the ginormous breakfast butties.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RMP46oafDlc/WbaoE6qs46I/AAAAAAAAFqU/KmQ7_Yuu1w4E0ZvNvaRcN2eRme49dXnQwCLcBGAs/s1600/P9050003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RMP46oafDlc/WbaoE6qs46I/AAAAAAAAFqU/KmQ7_Yuu1w4E0ZvNvaRcN2eRme49dXnQwCLcBGAs/s640/P9050003.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JLxCWWRqmtQ/WbaoOMoweVI/AAAAAAAAFqY/ZWCX6smdYekK-ADBY3j1QjlnMZ7rKqIWgCLcBGAs/s1600/P9050006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JLxCWWRqmtQ/WbaoOMoweVI/AAAAAAAAFqY/ZWCX6smdYekK-ADBY3j1QjlnMZ7rKqIWgCLcBGAs/s640/P9050006.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jMPyxSn3TeE/WbaoYy74qsI/AAAAAAAAFqc/04Id9xNAtQgx9g8xFYkrZbEK5wmC35amwCLcBGAs/s1600/P9050012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jMPyxSn3TeE/WbaoYy74qsI/AAAAAAAAFqc/04Id9xNAtQgx9g8xFYkrZbEK5wmC35amwCLcBGAs/s640/P9050012.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>Figure above Llanbedrog.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VUdTkV4AqQE/WbapF8aUTsI/AAAAAAAAFqk/iBWeQ3ZLa8ktgwSQhKnFKRh4mUOmH6WZwCLcBGAs/s1600/P9050013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VUdTkV4AqQE/WbapF8aUTsI/AAAAAAAAFqk/iBWeQ3ZLa8ktgwSQhKnFKRh4mUOmH6WZwCLcBGAs/s640/P9050013.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp;Llanbedrog.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KEEacICXXEc/WbapUS4CL-I/AAAAAAAAFqo/8cgyhdsSGxMdMCS2EB5bLeisvvexQnVbgCLcBGAs/s1600/P9050016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KEEacICXXEc/WbapUS4CL-I/AAAAAAAAFqo/8cgyhdsSGxMdMCS2EB5bLeisvvexQnVbgCLcBGAs/s640/P9050016.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Possibly a chapel? Llanbedrog.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o-EnCwVGj_Y/Wbapkomg4OI/AAAAAAAAFqs/FAqxrUtjsCM2E1jZEHmvFIgqCPIUx6MvwCLcBGAs/s1600/P9060017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o-EnCwVGj_Y/Wbapkomg4OI/AAAAAAAAFqs/FAqxrUtjsCM2E1jZEHmvFIgqCPIUx6MvwCLcBGAs/s640/P9060017.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Large slugs abounded on the campsite.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WUzfCsCwHCM/Wbapyb8VUqI/AAAAAAAAFqw/EEbCyhXJQNEURwwxhxZSfkWetJ1sQNzMwCLcBGAs/s1600/P9060018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WUzfCsCwHCM/Wbapyb8VUqI/AAAAAAAAFqw/EEbCyhXJQNEURwwxhxZSfkWetJ1sQNzMwCLcBGAs/s640/P9060018.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Ferns.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bsqWMhhQWUQ/Wbap9PksDFI/AAAAAAAAFq0/hG_zfiy5Xf8tou_CmYMa-qgvFm2nTlvsQCLcBGAs/s1600/P9060024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bsqWMhhQWUQ/Wbap9PksDFI/AAAAAAAAFq0/hG_zfiy5Xf8tou_CmYMa-qgvFm2nTlvsQCLcBGAs/s640/P9060024.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Fungi<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tMAKN2q1piY/WbaqHWhIE-I/AAAAAAAAFq4/Ph3G0PIVN_sfhZ6J_jyzrkkyivJK0VoRACLcBGAs/s1600/P9060025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tMAKN2q1piY/WbaqHWhIE-I/AAAAAAAAFq4/Ph3G0PIVN_sfhZ6J_jyzrkkyivJK0VoRACLcBGAs/s640/P9060025.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Trwyn y Gwyddel in the distance.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BLyCHKsN6KE/Wbaqvwko4DI/AAAAAAAAFq8/nZICltkM5swb5cxux_cOEzr46P8gkr7sgCLcBGAs/s1600/P9070030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BLyCHKsN6KE/Wbaqvwko4DI/AAAAAAAAFq8/nZICltkM5swb5cxux_cOEzr46P8gkr7sgCLcBGAs/s640/P9070030.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>More fungi<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r5GaRkOWpHc/Wbaq6xwmnaI/AAAAAAAAFrA/rOFauiErzhkI4ljqdpKVXcSWw68pK1hMQCLcBGAs/s1600/P9070028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r5GaRkOWpHc/Wbaq6xwmnaI/AAAAAAAAFrA/rOFauiErzhkI4ljqdpKVXcSWw68pK1hMQCLcBGAs/s640/P9070028.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>LTD, Lucky the dog.Dawn Linneyhttps://plus.google.com/103954743280747187581noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7741901748146303937.post-90164259064567575172017-08-24T16:03:00.001+01:002017-08-24T16:05:59.918+01:00Walks, dips, swims.Recently Mike has been laid up with a dodgy knee. However, by last week cabin fever was setting in. With no contours to worry about, Druridge Bay seemed a good place for an easy walk. Thus it was that last Wednesday we went for a gentle amble.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ld5WlkhJ8L0/WZ7QPIRFmYI/AAAAAAAAFjQ/I70LcWjJ6zksv4Y9W0l3EUOeCOuf44iXQCLcBGAs/s1600/P8160001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ld5WlkhJ8L0/WZ7QPIRFmYI/AAAAAAAAFjQ/I70LcWjJ6zksv4Y9W0l3EUOeCOuf44iXQCLcBGAs/s640/P8160001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>It was warm day with a blustery wind. There was no hurry and finding a sheltered spot, we stopped. A change in to cozzies and I nipped in for a swim. Something I find frustrating is my lack of confidence. There is always that niggling nervousness. There was a bit of cross current and the waves where fairly strong. Despite my qualms, I managed twenty minutes.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jvCU2bv_b4c/WZ7TU5oFjNI/AAAAAAAAFjc/03RS5QaPA50UOsJrX6kdPd9-37WvYNkTgCLcBGAs/s1600/P8160002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jvCU2bv_b4c/WZ7TU5oFjNI/AAAAAAAAFjc/03RS5QaPA50UOsJrX6kdPd9-37WvYNkTgCLcBGAs/s640/P8160002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />&nbsp; Mike went in twice and had fun playing tag with the waves rolling in. Resuming our walk, we completed our circuit without any undue problems with Mike's knee.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6pA1dOF95FQ/WZ7UCBoqpmI/AAAAAAAAFjk/vCGmBPVko9gKUTMA5Et36gs0E1fA54drwCLcBGAs/s1600/P8160004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6pA1dOF95FQ/WZ7UCBoqpmI/AAAAAAAAFjk/vCGmBPVko9gKUTMA5Et36gs0E1fA54drwCLcBGAs/s640/P8160004.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>On the Sunday we headed off to the Yorkshire Dales. Our destination was Rukins campsite in Keld. With the tent up, we went to explore. Mention has been made that the river Swale offered plenty of opportunities for swimming. We found a series of falls above Catrake Force. Two lovely pools offered some fine swimming.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BBNHKhw8l2g/WZ7YFAXrt2I/AAAAAAAAFj0/bVju4668xOUhyLUOfVQfCjikQzVgk7cgACLcBGAs/s1600/P8200005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BBNHKhw8l2g/WZ7YFAXrt2I/AAAAAAAAFj0/bVju4668xOUhyLUOfVQfCjikQzVgk7cgACLcBGAs/s640/P8200005.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp;Mind, the rocks were greasy and further out the water was deep. Mike enjoyed some fine dipping and had an exciting moment! Once in I managed around twenty minutes. The lower pool has a few hidden rocks and had a few 'oh dear' moments as I attempted to slide down over the falls to the lower pool.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v4qynTqDA6A/WZ7YWT_4ZXI/AAAAAAAAFj4/d20_ZN6YfGE767P_pk3zL8WtAbiykxXAgCLcBGAs/s1600/P8200006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v4qynTqDA6A/WZ7YWT_4ZXI/AAAAAAAAFj4/d20_ZN6YfGE767P_pk3zL8WtAbiykxXAgCLcBGAs/s640/P8200006.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The water was slightly chilly but felt soft and silky on the skin. Before folk ask, no, we did not skinny dip. The falls are too well visited.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0JL8M3FKf_E/WZ7Z09cCTqI/AAAAAAAAFkE/2DRq6KfY43IJhk6kHaSH-qyIP3T9fqQPgCLcBGAs/s1600/P8200007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0JL8M3FKf_E/WZ7Z09cCTqI/AAAAAAAAFkE/2DRq6KfY43IJhk6kHaSH-qyIP3T9fqQPgCLcBGAs/s640/P8200007.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The campsite was invaded that evening by a large, (very large!) group of D.O.E and army cadets. Mind, they were generally well behaved, polite too. On the Monday, after the cadets early morning parade, we set off for a walk up by Crackpot Hall.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jvfxd8p84I8/WZ7am8RcrRI/AAAAAAAAFkM/KIOzdAUwcAQ24jLQhD3jXsLQcsyHWjH-ACLcBGAs/s1600/P8210009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jvfxd8p84I8/WZ7am8RcrRI/AAAAAAAAFkM/KIOzdAUwcAQ24jLQhD3jXsLQcsyHWjH-ACLcBGAs/s640/P8210009.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The day was fine and we were in no rush.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y6Uq_8S6gB0/WZ7a9fCDrAI/AAAAAAAAFkQ/4mGXJ0bDAi8HMFF8B1v8W6L3LmXJtypNACLcBGAs/s1600/P8210011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y6Uq_8S6gB0/WZ7a9fCDrAI/AAAAAAAAFkQ/4mGXJ0bDAi8HMFF8B1v8W6L3LmXJtypNACLcBGAs/s640/P8210011.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>One for Alan. An old Ferguson I suspect? The whole area is riddled with old lead mines and workings. For anyone interested in industrial archeology this must be an area rich in history.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ryCMlXphtl0/WZ7cN8awhwI/AAAAAAAAFkc/UK8whZ1PagwtwuWG8cFWdRKRDRSgBahKwCLcBGAs/s1600/P8210012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ryCMlXphtl0/WZ7cN8awhwI/AAAAAAAAFkc/UK8whZ1PagwtwuWG8cFWdRKRDRSgBahKwCLcBGAs/s640/P8210012.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This is the route used by the Coast to Coast walkers. Further up much repairing of the path is being carried out. At the moment it looks hideous.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DpIW6AGtp70/WZ7c6355BOI/AAAAAAAAFkk/62f9dt6ECNE7hXLg3Yzd35Ta6axVKO85ACLcBGAs/s1600/P8210013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DpIW6AGtp70/WZ7c6355BOI/AAAAAAAAFkk/62f9dt6ECNE7hXLg3Yzd35Ta6axVKO85ACLcBGAs/s640/P8210013.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This path on the right is to be replaced by great, specially, cut stone slabs.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-de8W1m6MVUE/WZ7db-9JK1I/AAAAAAAAFks/EtzcwWgomV4_FLbs7jAfzGn1kNmPl1m9ACLcBGAs/s1600/P8210014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-de8W1m6MVUE/WZ7db-9JK1I/AAAAAAAAFks/EtzcwWgomV4_FLbs7jAfzGn1kNmPl1m9ACLcBGAs/s640/P8210014.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Descending down to Botcher Gill Gate, we stopped for a leisurely lunch. It was then a steady descent down to Dyke Heads and on to Ivelet.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YC_fvXdHmtU/WZ7ej_kULqI/AAAAAAAAFk4/CNqaslgH8hcalk8UIOYuwOy32dYZpRMUgCLcBGAs/s1600/P8210015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YC_fvXdHmtU/WZ7ej_kULqI/AAAAAAAAFk4/CNqaslgH8hcalk8UIOYuwOy32dYZpRMUgCLcBGAs/s640/P8210015.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>+At Ivelet Bridge we turned off to wander though grassy meadows by the river Swale.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AWrPJqIYOh0/WZ7fROhH6ZI/AAAAAAAAFlA/zCxVha6mhL812lFsQZ7IBz_B_Ptqu0XTgCLcBGAs/s1600/P8210016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AWrPJqIYOh0/WZ7fROhH6ZI/AAAAAAAAFlA/zCxVha6mhL812lFsQZ7IBz_B_Ptqu0XTgCLcBGAs/s640/P8210016.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>Staying with the river Swale we crossed it at Ramps Holme Bridge to continue up through more grassy meadows.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J0TfshCEno4/WZ7hXnV1__I/AAAAAAAAFlM/SVd7geBf3lQp6t2KGnNuOxOfViwJLtaHgCLcBGAs/s1600/P8210017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J0TfshCEno4/WZ7hXnV1__I/AAAAAAAAFlM/SVd7geBf3lQp6t2KGnNuOxOfViwJLtaHgCLcBGAs/s640/P8210017.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>It is hard to imagine the noise, the toil, the industry that this now quiet valley once was witness to.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uu0Z6K1tXm0/WZ7iE5kHjII/AAAAAAAAFlU/YvFDgsiGNnwKdHh5E5Zf6otf7vKNpHr4ACLcBGAs/s1600/P8210018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uu0Z6K1tXm0/WZ7iE5kHjII/AAAAAAAAFlU/YvFDgsiGNnwKdHh5E5Zf6otf7vKNpHr4ACLcBGAs/s640/P8210018.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>We were both feeling a tad wearied by this time and Mike's knee was playing up a bit.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bl7C5l9JJRI/WZ7inCyXkAI/AAAAAAAAFlc/5V661FPsq24XLDxStsoP8qUoa28Z2SR4ACLcBGAs/s1600/P8210019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bl7C5l9JJRI/WZ7inCyXkAI/AAAAAAAAFlc/5V661FPsq24XLDxStsoP8qUoa28Z2SR4ACLcBGAs/s640/P8210019.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Back at Keld we treated ourselves to a cup of tea and toasted tea cakes. We had earned it! &nbsp;arriving back at the tent, we found that the indomitable wandering minstrel, JJ had joined us. A convivial evening was spent by the fire (in a fire basket) despite the rain and midges.<br />Tuesday morning I went for a dip. John supplied me with a humungous egg, bacon and tomato butty on my return. We had a walk up to Wain Wath Force. A couple of children in wetsuits were have a fine time in the water. Being right beside the road, it was obviously a very popular place. A large group of folk set themselves up for a picnic. It would have been nice to have at least had a dip but I found it too crowded..<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J9P1hfk0Q9E/WZ7malzPhUI/AAAAAAAAFlo/CYtEaCKOZOM0ZDbmMRhk4b6XcNy4RLXMgCLcBGAs/s1600/P8220023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J9P1hfk0Q9E/WZ7malzPhUI/AAAAAAAAFlo/CYtEaCKOZOM0ZDbmMRhk4b6XcNy4RLXMgCLcBGAs/s640/P8220023.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Mike proposed a walk up to Ravenseat. here we indulged in cups of tea with freshly baked scones jam and cream. The path had been wet and clarty on the way up to the farm. Thus we followed the road for a short while and then joined a footpath back to High bridge.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ppnADNcW6sE/WZ7oVPEQtBI/AAAAAAAAFl0/KLKc1GwcS-oEXkEUwAehvswFqG74NVhVgCLcBGAs/s1600/P8220024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ppnADNcW6sE/WZ7oVPEQtBI/AAAAAAAAFl0/KLKc1GwcS-oEXkEUwAehvswFqG74NVhVgCLcBGAs/s640/P8220024.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp;There are many well preserved barns in the area.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wUeYrLeWY5g/WZ7oltLQ_lI/AAAAAAAAFl4/ePeCvdlQPDkJ7D01g_nMK-O4ZEgG587hgCLcBGAs/s1600/P8220025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wUeYrLeWY5g/WZ7oltLQ_lI/AAAAAAAAFl4/ePeCvdlQPDkJ7D01g_nMK-O4ZEgG587hgCLcBGAs/s640/P8220025.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>. A walk back down the road to Keld and the farm campsite to the cars and it was time to head home. A good couple of days.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tPB0gpLJ95E/WZ7qDe0RKYI/AAAAAAAAFmE/IWKO-ryWk2UEV3kI0umCLcnDA9nMxibWACLcBGAs/s1600/P8210020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tPB0gpLJ95E/WZ7qDe0RKYI/AAAAAAAAFmE/IWKO-ryWk2UEV3kI0umCLcnDA9nMxibWACLcBGAs/s640/P8210020.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m6ngNCbL6lc/WZ7qLlHCN6I/AAAAAAAAFmI/MH2JhQosZqEsmtjLdJD3QI-EidEmkFTSACLcBGAs/s1600/P8210021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m6ngNCbL6lc/WZ7qLlHCN6I/AAAAAAAAFmI/MH2JhQosZqEsmtjLdJD3QI-EidEmkFTSACLcBGAs/s640/P8210021.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LMxCwDlJ7ik/WZ7qTXUgJ6I/AAAAAAAAFmM/VVaekiisDuYcCocMC-E11-ClgmeDNIUVgCLcBGAs/s1600/P8220022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LMxCwDlJ7ik/WZ7qTXUgJ6I/AAAAAAAAFmM/VVaekiisDuYcCocMC-E11-ClgmeDNIUVgCLcBGAs/s640/P8220022.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DoSWTWsg-GU/WZ7qcMXmo6I/AAAAAAAAFmQ/bsTCUEz9Nl4yVR_l-7WOIPWNaOdtt01MACLcBGAs/s1600/P8220026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DoSWTWsg-GU/WZ7qcMXmo6I/AAAAAAAAFmQ/bsTCUEz9Nl4yVR_l-7WOIPWNaOdtt01MACLcBGAs/s640/P8220026.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E3ggPFOrULc/WZ7rQAGvLgI/AAAAAAAAFmY/piVxve89vBUOf1cGO4JoNGRYRJj2LaD7gCLcBGAs/s1600/P8200008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E3ggPFOrULc/WZ7rQAGvLgI/AAAAAAAAFmY/piVxve89vBUOf1cGO4JoNGRYRJj2LaD7gCLcBGAs/s640/P8200008.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Dawn Linneyhttps://plus.google.com/103954743280747187581noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7741901748146303937.post-4638804267886645832017-08-13T16:11:00.000+01:002017-08-13T19:05:10.200+01:00Gone swimmingOver the last few weeks, my main focus has been on swimming. Mike and I have been regular visitors to Ross Back Sands to indulge in a spot of dipping in the briny. The problem was, for me, the fact that I never did much in the way of actually swimming. On our last visit I did manage to take to the water. However, getting caught in cross currents and finding myself heading out to sea, spooked me a tad.<br />Years back I was a regular open water swimmer. That was way back in time. Somehow though my interest in swimming has been rekindled. Having Parkinson's, there is an essential need to keep active. Being a non clubbable sort of person, I took a very big decision and joined a nearby sea swimming club.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KCSDmS3jxlA/WZBlW1KIe3I/AAAAAAAAFhs/w2etsXtBwZEcYNN6DY4qQ7hT_eU9geQWQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0882.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KCSDmS3jxlA/WZBlW1KIe3I/AAAAAAAAFhs/w2etsXtBwZEcYNN6DY4qQ7hT_eU9geQWQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0882.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>One thing I immediately became aware of was that basically I had to relearn how to swim. Thus over the last few weeks I have been regularly heading seaward. There are no swimming lessons on offer. It is a case of getting in there and doing it.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TFmqTRSZtTw/WZBmjifbHEI/AAAAAAAAFh4/z7pocYGl5tY9sIMwwf0amJd-hjOFOEuTACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0895.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TFmqTRSZtTw/WZBmjifbHEI/AAAAAAAAFh4/z7pocYGl5tY9sIMwwf0amJd-hjOFOEuTACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0895.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>These photos were taken earlier this year. As to whether I will manage to swim in those conditions remain to be seen. Several of the ladies at the swimming club, all like me, of more senior years, assure me it is fun. All it takes is to get out beyond the breakers hitting the shore and riding the rollers, so I am told?<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FGvlget8jwY/WZBn0HAN7mI/AAAAAAAAFiE/h8kr_ryWDeAOqLG_u3jimWo2JGsOF2WNgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0901.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FGvlget8jwY/WZBn0HAN7mI/AAAAAAAAFiE/h8kr_ryWDeAOqLG_u3jimWo2JGsOF2WNgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0901.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>How long I will continue through the year, I have no idea. Ideally I would like to swim through the winter months.It is a case of taking it one swim at a time. So far I am averaging around thirty five minutes in the water. Sea temperatures have been hovering around twelve to thirteen degrees. The worst part, I find, is the actual getting in. Once in it is quite enjoyable!<br />&nbsp;Certainly on future backpacking trip my swim costume will included. These photos are a selection from my local walks taken over several months.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GKTG1i5CzO0/WZBqJvAdbTI/AAAAAAAAFiQ/8RINB75vsiIQugHk5_r1r44VV5wE3y0RQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GKTG1i5CzO0/WZBqJvAdbTI/AAAAAAAAFiQ/8RINB75vsiIQugHk5_r1r44VV5wE3y0RQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0889.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wAS3mfDds2w/WZBqRbFM3sI/AAAAAAAAFiU/BR6sHWbr3iks1mcoXd6yygaFi-KMF3ZrQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0898.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wAS3mfDds2w/WZBqRbFM3sI/AAAAAAAAFiU/BR6sHWbr3iks1mcoXd6yygaFi-KMF3ZrQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0898.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m_cJQuHkvxk/WZBqucVDPFI/AAAAAAAAFig/HuDyI7TAOSg8etF8JR7BxOfjLMxugYc0ACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0899.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m_cJQuHkvxk/WZBqucVDPFI/AAAAAAAAFig/HuDyI7TAOSg8etF8JR7BxOfjLMxugYc0ACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0899.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wwHgueMzYLM/WZBq5shEUAI/AAAAAAAAFik/7CWsEmnD0CoxDr_2_E8bnFhVWS5Ytym1ACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0894.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wwHgueMzYLM/WZBq5shEUAI/AAAAAAAAFik/7CWsEmnD0CoxDr_2_E8bnFhVWS5Ytym1ACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0894.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z8nPpLOSjFY/WZBrDxz85mI/AAAAAAAAFio/8EMoNYwON0wYZfI5itFpO5WzpbHd4u1dQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0902.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z8nPpLOSjFY/WZBrDxz85mI/AAAAAAAAFio/8EMoNYwON0wYZfI5itFpO5WzpbHd4u1dQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0902.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rbu2x4w5U5s/WZBrKULVqXI/AAAAAAAAFis/GayUL_N5qJEl9lCUhoq6tZvXAYEzOfgegCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0903.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rbu2x4w5U5s/WZBrKULVqXI/AAAAAAAAFis/GayUL_N5qJEl9lCUhoq6tZvXAYEzOfgegCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0903.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MoWzp3ta4jc/WZBrrwWenpI/AAAAAAAAFiw/YA-tNtrU55MIjsVOkc_UR9nN_yZ5-VVWwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0904.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MoWzp3ta4jc/WZBrrwWenpI/AAAAAAAAFiw/YA-tNtrU55MIjsVOkc_UR9nN_yZ5-VVWwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0904.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />Dawn Linneyhttps://plus.google.com/103954743280747187581noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7741901748146303937.post-4937585686178452092017-07-27T19:36:00.000+01:002017-07-27T19:36:00.510+01:00Three hills and a swim.Mike and I have quite an established routine for this area. A day walking and then set up a bivi on Ross Back sands. The following day is spent on the beach and in the water, dipping and swimming. Thus it was that on the Monday we headed in to the Cheviot hills. Our first top was Fredden Hill.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uvudwp9KUDU/WXotI1qdndI/AAAAAAAAFgI/ab6Gk-ObPHMSiqMtKrLIKfwl7ijqiYrMACLcBGAs/s1600/P7240001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uvudwp9KUDU/WXotI1qdndI/AAAAAAAAFgI/ab6Gk-ObPHMSiqMtKrLIKfwl7ijqiYrMACLcBGAs/s640/P7240001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A descent that involved a patch of dense bracken, a pause for lunch and then on to Hart Heugh. It was windy up there.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YBtkuE-I99Y/WXotxaepnPI/AAAAAAAAFgQ/HKb-NXCUgz8nYfip_-qR6TOaMImVn91HACLcBGAs/s1600/P7240004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YBtkuE-I99Y/WXotxaepnPI/AAAAAAAAFgQ/HKb-NXCUgz8nYfip_-qR6TOaMImVn91HACLcBGAs/s640/P7240004.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>It was then back across Wooler Common.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FX07_PGDz2E/WXovMGy6xsI/AAAAAAAAFgc/6rob02QgTXACnEjDgpVB8G5PFhlKNkzCACLcBGAs/s1600/P7240005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FX07_PGDz2E/WXovMGy6xsI/AAAAAAAAFgc/6rob02QgTXACnEjDgpVB8G5PFhlKNkzCACLcBGAs/s640/P7240005.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />&nbsp;Mike nipped up Earle Whin. Then it was back to the car and on to Ross Back sands. Here we set up our bivi come beach shelter!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lafv0bwClu0/WXoufeR9-cI/AAAAAAAAFgU/3sVzRlS1xLkcdGIfkN_luRm-RbPilrgowCLcBGAs/s1600/P7240006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lafv0bwClu0/WXoufeR9-cI/AAAAAAAAFgU/3sVzRlS1xLkcdGIfkN_luRm-RbPilrgowCLcBGAs/s640/P7240006.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>We had been considering a swim or quick dip. However, a heavy sea was running with large breakers rolling in.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j5JwpNWPfkQ/WXou9CEOzqI/AAAAAAAAFgY/vR0gRYRsZsEdKugOiimCObGMbdyRJ838QCLcBGAs/s1600/P7250008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j5JwpNWPfkQ/WXou9CEOzqI/AAAAAAAAFgY/vR0gRYRsZsEdKugOiimCObGMbdyRJ838QCLcBGAs/s640/P7250008.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Tuesday morning saw the sea much more settled. There were some fairly heavy waves breaking on the beach though. Getting in to sea I could feel the surge and pull of the waves. It was a little unsettling though when I realised that my feet could no longer touch bottom. Also, I could feel myself being drawn out to sea. Swimming hard, I headed back to the beach.. It was a short swim and yes, I was a wee bit spooked. Swimming solo safety must come first. Mike wisely stayed in the shallows. Later I went back in but did not swim very long.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xii4x9KDXuc/WXoxgJIFQzI/AAAAAAAAFgk/NJ61_oy78DgJTsQbebSx4z-ah4hGYxX6ACLcBGAs/s1600/P7250009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xii4x9KDXuc/WXoxgJIFQzI/AAAAAAAAFgk/NJ61_oy78DgJTsQbebSx4z-ah4hGYxX6ACLcBGAs/s640/P7250009.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp;A pleasant couple of days. Over the next few weeks I will spend more time swimming and brushing up on my rusty swimming skills.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YS6OS8FGAaU/WXoyD-X0ecI/AAAAAAAAFgo/Ict7tofIUPcvbJ_w10EmnXxvlZFzp2RcQCLcBGAs/s1600/P7240007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YS6OS8FGAaU/WXoyD-X0ecI/AAAAAAAAFgo/Ict7tofIUPcvbJ_w10EmnXxvlZFzp2RcQCLcBGAs/s640/P7240007.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i_A6U27uES8/WXoyN9mdc5I/AAAAAAAAFgs/Hoxwb16o-EwBvJGVlzJ08agT37So1CCrgCLcBGAs/s1600/P7240003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i_A6U27uES8/WXoyN9mdc5I/AAAAAAAAFgs/Hoxwb16o-EwBvJGVlzJ08agT37So1CCrgCLcBGAs/s640/P7240003.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Dawn Linneyhttps://plus.google.com/103954743280747187581noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7741901748146303937.post-20332718593030662142017-07-22T09:59:00.000+01:002017-07-22T10:02:38.045+01:00Of swimming and bog trottingAt one time I used to swim on a regular basis. That though was some years back. Wild swimming had been my preferred option. Over the last couple of years Mike and I had been visiting Ross Back Sands. A lovely, often largely deserted beach. We had spent time in having dips and playing in the shallows. &nbsp;Mike in particular was much bolder and hardier than me, spending much more time in the sea.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2PQiNR9xLOk/WXMFnGWz5NI/AAAAAAAAFeE/j4iiCX5KljUcAcEEzmUSr_O1rWuxwAjbACLcBGAs/s1600/P7210001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2PQiNR9xLOk/WXMFnGWz5NI/AAAAAAAAFeE/j4iiCX5KljUcAcEEzmUSr_O1rWuxwAjbACLcBGAs/s640/P7210001.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>Waterfall, Ash Gill, look closely, there is a figure.<br />It niggled me though, somewhere along the way I seemed to have lost my swimming mojo. A visit to the local swimming baths had been a negative experience. It had felt sterile, regimented, everyone swimming in marked lanes, ceaselessly plodding up and down. Worse still, it was crowded. In short, I hated it.<br />Well aware that my Parkinson,s is getting worse, there also came a need to counter balance it. Tuesday last, I made a step in that direction. Not being a clubbable person, I took, what was for me, a large step. Heading over to Whitley Bay, I joined up with a group of other swimmers and went for a swim. They are sea swimmers and I spent some twenty five minutes swimming in the sea.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XLizCeB-JhA/WXMHgcaVC2I/AAAAAAAAFeQ/QcY3bIbiVYQsZQSJTeo2FteI4JVCdIKCgCLcBGAs/s1600/P7210002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XLizCeB-JhA/WXMHgcaVC2I/AAAAAAAAFeQ/QcY3bIbiVYQsZQSJTeo2FteI4JVCdIKCgCLcBGAs/s640/P7210002.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>Ash Gill waterfall.<br />On Wednesday Mike and I were supposed to heading for a couple of tops in the outlying Cheviots. Cancelled due to dire weather forecasts, we met up on Friday. &nbsp;This time we had swimming in mind. Our first stop was to be Ash Gill, near Garrigill. Unfortunately the forecast differed from what we actually experienced. It was wet and quite chilly.<br />Ash Gill has a series of pools, some quite deep. Selecting one, we changed into swimming costumes. Mike was first in, gasping at the coldness of the water. Not hesitating, I edged in. Loose rocks under my feet made me a little wary. The water was not clear and any obstacles could not be seen. With the water up to my chest, I leaned forward, allowing the coldness to envelope me. There was little room for a full swimming stroke. Using a half side stroke, come doggy paddle, I swam round the pool. For a few moments I floated on my back, allowing the water to push me along. Really though it was a little restricted.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vRBVHFGU3uQ/WXMLGdjsecI/AAAAAAAAFec/957qbXuvSegaCPtbupy0NdG0Ger6O6YiACLcBGAs/s1600/P7210004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vRBVHFGU3uQ/WXMLGdjsecI/AAAAAAAAFec/957qbXuvSegaCPtbupy0NdG0Ger6O6YiACLcBGAs/s640/P7210004.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A swimmers eye view!<br />Overall, I was only in the water for some ten minutes. Possibly I could have gone on and swum in a few more pools. However, on getting out, a strong breezey wind was blowing and I began to chill. Thus I dried off and got into warm, dry clothing and joined Mike for lunch . Mike was a wee bit annoyed with himself for not taking the plunge. The water though did feel colder than the sea and knowing Mike, he will be back in the waves next week.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FGPxIbrYjUA/WXMM0lTrk-I/AAAAAAAAFeo/J9Ku5T0W1_Ml00kzahAILPN3Bo8_g5o4gCLcBGAs/s1600/P7210005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FGPxIbrYjUA/WXMM0lTrk-I/AAAAAAAAFeo/J9Ku5T0W1_Ml00kzahAILPN3Bo8_g5o4gCLcBGAs/s640/P7210005.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>One of Ash Gill,s pools, note clarity of water here!<br />Ash Gill does not offer easy access, the path drops steeply down the the hillside. In the wet conditions it proved to be extremely slippery.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5qshRWPhtrg/WXMNsRGbROI/AAAAAAAAFew/mpVFnhOu0wwoZcB6vfSK_waNc8lPLHpOQCLcBGAs/s1600/P7210007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5qshRWPhtrg/WXMNsRGbROI/AAAAAAAAFew/mpVFnhOu0wwoZcB6vfSK_waNc8lPLHpOQCLcBGAs/s640/P7210007.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>Taken in the rain, hence slight streaky affect.<br />In the afternoon we headed over to Cow Green. Originally we had thought about another swim. With the way the weather was we cancelled on that. Mike though, new of a few fairly remote deep pools near to the upper river Tees.. We set off to at least investigate them. Unfortunately it involved making our way across wet, rough, boggy ground. By the time we reached the river I was feeling a little wobbly. The rocks in the river were slippery and I opted out. Mike forged on, paddling across while I sorted out my meds.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OZpz6useU3g/WXMQ1Da86dI/AAAAAAAAFfA/sEH-IifTNUohKUaRsNpjGUImowfEhqGuQCLcBGAs/s1600/P7210008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OZpz6useU3g/WXMQ1Da86dI/AAAAAAAAFfA/sEH-IifTNUohKUaRsNpjGUImowfEhqGuQCLcBGAs/s640/P7210008.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp;On his return, Mike gave the thumbs up on the pools. A return visit will be made sometime. Our return to the carpark involved a tad more bog trotting. A different sort of day but pleasureable.<br />The question as to whether I continue swimming over the winter months remains to be seen? Certainly I am not going to make any rash statements. It will be a case of one swim at a time, two or three swims a week. If my body adapts to the cold conditions then I certainly will make the attempt.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HRqQ2gSIw38/WXMSlPDiGUI/AAAAAAAAFfQ/WV_klilwKcQWVU6Kx7mGGq8AJaiYmLoKQCLcBGAs/s1600/P7210003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HRqQ2gSIw38/WXMSlPDiGUI/AAAAAAAAFfQ/WV_klilwKcQWVU6Kx7mGGq8AJaiYmLoKQCLcBGAs/s640/P7210003.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WGM4w90YC4w/WXMSyHFQeqI/AAAAAAAAFfU/liTvfQHXCFA75zubtIdsqNiIuRNy5DgYwCLcBGAs/s1600/P7210006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WGM4w90YC4w/WXMSyHFQeqI/AAAAAAAAFfU/liTvfQHXCFA75zubtIdsqNiIuRNy5DgYwCLcBGAs/s640/P7210006.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Dawn Linneyhttps://plus.google.com/103954743280747187581noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7741901748146303937.post-74771042715893306132017-07-19T13:39:00.000+01:002017-07-19T13:39:21.496+01:00Dales wandering.This was another one of the CAMRA walks that Mike was reviewing. The Settle/Carlisle line is very convenient for circular walks in the Yorkshire Dales. Thus Mike extended the route a wee bit. It was the latter part of the afternoon when we got off the train in Horton in Ribblesdale. The sun was out and it was warm. There is something quite pleasing to be heading up the hill as everyone else is heading down. The questioning look can be seen in the eye of some folk as they pass and say hi!.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0PdXb2jKm5g/WWyx6V8FV1I/AAAAAAAAFaw/c0Tvhgij9TYAP3Oti8cgVzEp5XChbWVJgCLcBGAs/s1600/P7120002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0PdXb2jKm5g/WWyx6V8FV1I/AAAAAAAAFaw/c0Tvhgij9TYAP3Oti8cgVzEp5XChbWVJgCLcBGAs/s640/P7120002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A delightful camping spot was found by Hull Pot beck. Unfortunately there where no deep pools in the beck to allow for swimming. However, we enjoyed a cooling dip, which was refreshing.<br />The following morning saw us heading up Pen-y-ghent. Initially we followed the old path, joining the new one higher up. &nbsp;Just before the top is a new, hideous concrete staircase. Possibly a shiny new hand rail will follow? It boggles the question as to what is going to happen on the scrambly bit going up over the prow.. There are rumours of Alpine style guides, fixed belay points and via ferrata??<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tIKoTh8VvLc/WWy485bhHuI/AAAAAAAAFbA/n8u0EgKHorUdb0nwlrIX6TyKFP61xnP2QCLcBGAs/s1600/P7130005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tIKoTh8VvLc/WWy485bhHuI/AAAAAAAAFbA/n8u0EgKHorUdb0nwlrIX6TyKFP61xnP2QCLcBGAs/s640/P7130005.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Heading up Pen-Y-ghent.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--U08SJ4Qozk/WWy5PsAy9TI/AAAAAAAAFbE/srYIXjx6js0seQM6MY_zt5Tqmq9tKaRRQCLcBGAs/s1600/P7130006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--U08SJ4Qozk/WWy5PsAy9TI/AAAAAAAAFbE/srYIXjx6js0seQM6MY_zt5Tqmq9tKaRRQCLcBGAs/s640/P7130006.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Things were getting busy on Pen-y-ghent.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ox3wi_M9N4g/WWy5pQVN3aI/AAAAAAAAFbI/NP_XhZKVlPwFsRAElZ-DbZhHkvsXI_ZiACLcBGAs/s1600/P7130007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ox3wi_M9N4g/WWy5pQVN3aI/AAAAAAAAFbI/NP_XhZKVlPwFsRAElZ-DbZhHkvsXI_ZiACLcBGAs/s640/P7130007.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp;We continued following the Pennine Way to skirt around Fountains Fell. We mutually agreed on having an easy day.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TFTcC3mXk6I/WW8iCWl55KI/AAAAAAAAFbg/j7S6gpUszoE_Bfh65AIiEIzF3cWda61NgCLcBGAs/s1600/P7130010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TFTcC3mXk6I/WW8iCWl55KI/AAAAAAAAFbg/j7S6gpUszoE_Bfh65AIiEIzF3cWda61NgCLcBGAs/s640/P7130010.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Finding nice water at Tenants Gill and a good camping spot, we stopped for the day.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nVVIjHBgd9I/WW8isOmCzhI/AAAAAAAAFbo/1Vs5K_y3vV09tr-56xRasCCSXMcwSIHdACLcBGAs/s1600/P7130012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nVVIjHBgd9I/WW8isOmCzhI/AAAAAAAAFbo/1Vs5K_y3vV09tr-56xRasCCSXMcwSIHdACLcBGAs/s640/P7130012.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>. A lazy afternoon was spent in our usual round of activities, which involved tea drinking, reading and snoozing. Heavy rain came in overnight. The following morning was grey and a wee bit dreich but not actually raining.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7z7OBeDo8Zo/WW8ji-MEGBI/AAAAAAAAFbw/T-X_3X1HJe0zJc84AH_iVut9AnZzT03HACLcBGAs/s1600/P7140013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7z7OBeDo8Zo/WW8ji-MEGBI/AAAAAAAAFbw/T-X_3X1HJe0zJc84AH_iVut9AnZzT03HACLcBGAs/s640/P7140013.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>We had a few drizzly showers as we made our way over to &nbsp;Malham tarn.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yUhD9bGdkoc/WW8kA0esARI/AAAAAAAAFb0/WsTHZgUrXPMM5rxL5cEPuOImOZicKp12QCLcBGAs/s1600/P7140014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yUhD9bGdkoc/WW8kA0esARI/AAAAAAAAFb0/WsTHZgUrXPMM5rxL5cEPuOImOZicKp12QCLcBGAs/s640/P7140014.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>Stopping for a break, we sheltered out of a blustery wind by a wall and perused the map. This was going to be a lazy day again. our plan was simple, head over to Langscar Gate and then around by Kirkby Fell. Two rangers were busy installing new gates along the track. Thus we were a tad wary &nbsp;in finding a spot to camp. After a bit of casting about we settled on a grassy spot by some ancient mine workings.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NXLvD0ylZlM/WW8ncvEbDJI/AAAAAAAAFcI/VRMLkP1asa81lOjBVLPNUUzQLmreo-UTACLcBGAs/s1600/P7140016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NXLvD0ylZlM/WW8ncvEbDJI/AAAAAAAAFcI/VRMLkP1asa81lOjBVLPNUUzQLmreo-UTACLcBGAs/s640/P7140016.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Later that afternoon, with the nearby gate fixed and the rangers gone, Mike and Lucky headed up Rye Loaf Hill. On his return, Mike had noticed a few beasts and a large bull heading through the gate. Cattle and tents do not go together. They get curious, come and have nose &nbsp;and the inevitable can happen with panicking animals tripping over guy lines and chaos reigns. The easiest course of action was to persuade the animals back the other side of the gate and close it. With this duly done, everyone could settle down for a peaceful night.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GPrO_EWaLRg/WW8wQZCjEeI/AAAAAAAAFck/uGAVL5TsP_wvrNrTzlrt8kuE2E352vuZACLcBGAs/s1600/P7150017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GPrO_EWaLRg/WW8wQZCjEeI/AAAAAAAAFck/uGAVL5TsP_wvrNrTzlrt8kuE2E352vuZACLcBGAs/s640/P7150017.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A few showers during the night. The morning though was dank and cloud &nbsp;covered, everything shrouded in grey. Making sure that the gate was back where it ought to be, we enjoyed a leisurely walk down to Settle.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LfDZg5e40kI/WW9QkNtQYzI/AAAAAAAAFc0/wh29vuIEx6UgPdQAgYH8aYJh4kalUQUwgCLcBGAs/s1600/P7150018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LfDZg5e40kI/WW9QkNtQYzI/AAAAAAAAFc0/wh29vuIEx6UgPdQAgYH8aYJh4kalUQUwgCLcBGAs/s640/P7150018.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Arriving early, we pottered about, visited a cafe for a cuppa and something to eat and then investigated a nearby pub. All in all, an enjoyable few days.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SXAY3I-qjVE/WW9SJ59yxMI/AAAAAAAAFdA/4cEVdkiGjh4By3QE_EOzTDsTCzechJa1ACLcBGAs/s1600/P7150019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SXAY3I-qjVE/WW9SJ59yxMI/AAAAAAAAFdA/4cEVdkiGjh4By3QE_EOzTDsTCzechJa1ACLcBGAs/s640/P7150019.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K2x3YYHfs6w/WW9STHbIKVI/AAAAAAAAFdE/BIxwCmsuLUIrOJY7GjM3LnL7WDFlgWyHACLcBGAs/s1600/P7130004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K2x3YYHfs6w/WW9STHbIKVI/AAAAAAAAFdE/BIxwCmsuLUIrOJY7GjM3LnL7WDFlgWyHACLcBGAs/s640/P7130004.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iuHZfZIfCWM/WW9SdN1hbZI/AAAAAAAAFdI/b5lF95aM6dcyqqL3McuXDH32D_qH6ljzwCLcBGAs/s1600/P7130008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iuHZfZIfCWM/WW9SdN1hbZI/AAAAAAAAFdI/b5lF95aM6dcyqqL3McuXDH32D_qH6ljzwCLcBGAs/s640/P7130008.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ghVZvZTLmcQ/WW9SnYpkyyI/AAAAAAAAFdM/60cJLmsgMVYcCJDjRO0ZxDvleL2H-Q2AACLcBGAs/s1600/P7130009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ghVZvZTLmcQ/WW9SnYpkyyI/AAAAAAAAFdM/60cJLmsgMVYcCJDjRO0ZxDvleL2H-Q2AACLcBGAs/s640/P7130009.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0y9PFDBPVgw/WW9Sweyw_II/AAAAAAAAFdQ/QM0aMR-KIAoMml9ltDe1pNgQ-OBb1NEDQCLcBGAs/s1600/P7130011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0y9PFDBPVgw/WW9Sweyw_II/AAAAAAAAFdQ/QM0aMR-KIAoMml9ltDe1pNgQ-OBb1NEDQCLcBGAs/s640/P7130011.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />Dawn Linneyhttps://plus.google.com/103954743280747187581noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7741901748146303937.post-74912557118920767222017-07-02T17:40:00.000+01:002017-07-02T17:40:40.274+01:00Cold Law in the mist.Mike and I had another wee trip in mind. Basically a walk to take in a top and then another beach foray.<br />All the way up to the Cheviots it remained wet. Turning up in to the Harthope valley we also encountered swirling mist. It would be a day for full waterproofs.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ncquiwlSP6s/WVja2iCmh8I/AAAAAAAAFZY/97cNKapYdkYGVz4kWNNPJuZ5YhUgC6YUACLcBGAs/s1600/P6300001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ncquiwlSP6s/WVja2iCmh8I/AAAAAAAAFZY/97cNKapYdkYGVz4kWNNPJuZ5YhUgC6YUACLcBGAs/s640/P6300001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A steady plod uphill through the all pervading dampness eventually brought us to Cold Law.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jSGNMmDlhhU/WVjbXkRgJxI/AAAAAAAAFZc/UCbnmUOXiIkrcPV3AYfgAj9B-Y1c53g9ACLcBGAs/s1600/P6300003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jSGNMmDlhhU/WVjbXkRgJxI/AAAAAAAAFZc/UCbnmUOXiIkrcPV3AYfgAj9B-Y1c53g9ACLcBGAs/s640/P6300003.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>.By the time we returned to the car park the rain had eased.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0hY6WdO2FFs/WVjcCMPuTNI/AAAAAAAAFZg/ROmItFHwO90jPVwo0OrAXdnvZZrWDp72gCLcBGAs/s1600/P6300004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0hY6WdO2FFs/WVjcCMPuTNI/AAAAAAAAFZg/ROmItFHwO90jPVwo0OrAXdnvZZrWDp72gCLcBGAs/s640/P6300004.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Thankfully it remained fairly dry for the walk in to Ross Back Sands. There was though, a steady northerly wind blowing down the beach.<br />My concern, worrier that I am, was the tarp we were going to use. Anyone can bivi with a tarp and be uncomfortable. The secret is being comfortable under one. Realising that Mike and I needed something a tad larger, I started thinking. A project that had not turned out right had left me with a fair amount of ripstop nylon. After a hesitant start, I had got busy. Some snipping and cutting and a large amount of sewing with a sewing machine that was not firing on all cylinders, and I had a nine foot square &nbsp;tarp. The initial hemming required some thirty six feet of stitching. Much muttering and a few choice swear words saw pegging loops added to the corners and middle of the hems. Not my best bit of work. Elegant it was not, functional, most certainly!<br />My concern was the set up I had in mind, having never used such a large tarp. Despite a thin, mizzly wetness driving down the beach, a wee bit of faffing and we had the tarp up. Not the best but hey! we had shelter from the wind and weather on all three sides. It needs more work in the shape of another lifter toward the rear. However there was loads of space and with the addition &nbsp;of a mega plastic sheet &nbsp;Mike had brought along for the floor, we were snug.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jSIVy8dnbdo/WVjhD-bPqEI/AAAAAAAAFZs/bjVgrQAMqqsfNPPJVaetPSXlOTg3c9FfACLcBGAs/s1600/P6300007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jSIVy8dnbdo/WVjhD-bPqEI/AAAAAAAAFZs/bjVgrQAMqqsfNPPJVaetPSXlOTg3c9FfACLcBGAs/s640/P6300007.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp;We spent the rest of the day snoozing, reading, drinking tea and generally chilling out.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-60VGaKqlXZ0/WVjlccL707I/AAAAAAAAFZ0/9eHq2nJJZ88vN7oiyljqlM5FP6JMtGmfwCLcBGAs/s1600/P6300008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-60VGaKqlXZ0/WVjlccL707I/AAAAAAAAFZ0/9eHq2nJJZ88vN7oiyljqlM5FP6JMtGmfwCLcBGAs/s640/P6300008.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Early morning saw a &nbsp;sea fog drifting in with the waves still crashing on the beach in in great rolling, white capped crescendos. Gradually though, the wind changed to the west and the boisterous waves eventually eased. We both spent some time frollicking in the shallows. Mike got wetter than me!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pWkJsTX6vYc/WVjnOryK0hI/AAAAAAAAFZ4/bRAwLmjBDpc5-HM--Ht8lbiL5uS53cKNwCLcBGAs/s1600/P7010009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pWkJsTX6vYc/WVjnOryK0hI/AAAAAAAAFZ4/bRAwLmjBDpc5-HM--Ht8lbiL5uS53cKNwCLcBGAs/s640/P7010009.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The storm had washed a mass of baby jellyfish and great swathes of seaweed.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vMVzZAMSX60/WVjnoP0bHMI/AAAAAAAAFZ8/uSXovmZX1tk8-KAbeYM3CXfpFQjsVRRvACLcBGAs/s1600/P7010010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vMVzZAMSX60/WVjnoP0bHMI/AAAAAAAAFZ8/uSXovmZX1tk8-KAbeYM3CXfpFQjsVRRvACLcBGAs/s640/P7010010.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Later in the morning the sun came out and we spent a pleasant &nbsp;few hours before the clouds rolled back in again. It was odd to see a few elderly gents, hidden in the dunes, every so often, stand up, peer around and disappear again &nbsp;One chappie, rather long in the tooth, had been sitting not that far from us. Standing, he pulled on a pair of shorts, picked up a wee rucksack and walked up the beach, past us. Then proceeded just the other side of us, to enter the dunes once more. There, he discarded the shorts and carried on up through the dunes. Not long after, Mike took Lucky for a walk. Low and behold the same person was now heading back down the beach, clothed. As he came level with our bivi, he paused, gave a loud 'harrumph' and continued on his way. Odd? Even more peculiar was that ten minutes later he came back up the beach, naked and shortly after headed back down the beach, still nude? Well, I guess it takes all sorts!<br />It was, all in all, not a bad wee do. Readers be warned, there may be more scribblings along these lines!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3HVqc2a-KYg/WVkg4U7Ma8I/AAAAAAAAFaM/UUgMfO3pMkAvUdJ3Sqeq1Iae2BGaLcL8ACLcBGAs/s1600/P6300005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3HVqc2a-KYg/WVkg4U7Ma8I/AAAAAAAAFaM/UUgMfO3pMkAvUdJ3Sqeq1Iae2BGaLcL8ACLcBGAs/s640/P6300005.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S00EcWnvemk/WVkhEgf1PCI/AAAAAAAAFaQ/GrgtjxyubQsdJAkpORfzl5pQWOnp8Sj7wCLcBGAs/s1600/P7010012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S00EcWnvemk/WVkhEgf1PCI/AAAAAAAAFaQ/GrgtjxyubQsdJAkpORfzl5pQWOnp8Sj7wCLcBGAs/s640/P7010012.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Dawn Linneyhttps://plus.google.com/103954743280747187581noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7741901748146303937.post-25804406383647978862017-06-22T16:42:00.001+01:002017-06-26T09:45:15.696+01:00Summer solsticeMike and I decided to spend the summer solstice on our favourite beach, Ross Back Sands. The plan was simple, a walk in the Cheviots before heading for the beach. Having a hospital appointment in the morning meant a later start than normal. It was a straightforward walk starting in the Harthope valley up to Langlee Crags and back. A slight delay when a chappy took a purler over the handlebars of his bike.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-regEX26uDXs/WUvcnBiC3lI/AAAAAAAAFX8/ILM8U3BBMJ0pEl4UviZdKp3lO9MID78ugCLcBGAs/s1600/P6200001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-regEX26uDXs/WUvcnBiC3lI/AAAAAAAAFX8/ILM8U3BBMJ0pEl4UviZdKp3lO9MID78ugCLcBGAs/s640/P6200001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A pleasant walk up the hill above the valley, chivied by a blustery wind. A wander around Langlee crags and a leisurely stop for lunch.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZFVZLpi_5nQ/WUvdQa_oIVI/AAAAAAAAFYE/EJclpW4PDnsa3ihaZ3YE_cXFRrd0PM7UQCLcBGAs/s1600/P6200002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZFVZLpi_5nQ/WUvdQa_oIVI/AAAAAAAAFYE/EJclpW4PDnsa3ihaZ3YE_cXFRrd0PM7UQCLcBGAs/s640/P6200002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp;There are several rocky outcrops in the area. A fascinating geological feature.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P-w9o6yvGBs/WUvdlA9LZuI/AAAAAAAAFYI/8crQeW0ybkoboi1MMKqt9KConphcNJVXACLcBGAs/s1600/P6200003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P-w9o6yvGBs/WUvdlA9LZuI/AAAAAAAAFYI/8crQeW0ybkoboi1MMKqt9KConphcNJVXACLcBGAs/s640/P6200003.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>It was difficult to decide which one was actually the highest point, thus we visited them all.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WXkteUpyhKE/WUvd3gXew-I/AAAAAAAAFYM/o8kcP3DHoHkBnqTp2z-T_KK1QyQKbfeUQCLcBGAs/s1600/P6200005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WXkteUpyhKE/WUvd3gXew-I/AAAAAAAAFYM/o8kcP3DHoHkBnqTp2z-T_KK1QyQKbfeUQCLcBGAs/s640/P6200005.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--xWGwcRQXzE/WUvd_EmyUEI/AAAAAAAAFYQ/gnu7Sjv7AVsrvdpf9bQIZ2OLo2rUqvQ4gCLcBGAs/s1600/P6200007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--xWGwcRQXzE/WUvd_EmyUEI/AAAAAAAAFYQ/gnu7Sjv7AVsrvdpf9bQIZ2OLo2rUqvQ4gCLcBGAs/s640/P6200007.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>We took a slightly circular route back to the car, passing through a herd of quite placid cows.<br />It was then on to Ross Back Sands. A bivi on the beach, is a wee bit different from the average bivi. A nylon tarp is still used However, anchoring in fine sand is a more difficult proposition. Currently I have been using a selection of sixteen inch, home made wooden stakes. The downside is that they are darned heavy. Extra guylines are also needed, beaches can be windy.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8QQS3M5jGHQ/WUvgA9LnZRI/AAAAAAAAFYc/swpehg8OHcw6t8NqBm-wxyijQB93zlnPACLcBGAs/s1600/P6200008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8QQS3M5jGHQ/WUvgA9LnZRI/AAAAAAAAFYc/swpehg8OHcw6t8NqBm-wxyijQB93zlnPACLcBGAs/s640/P6200008.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Using a gull wing tarp and the camo basha groundsheet as an extra side panel to protect from the wind.<br /><br />We usually carry in at least six litres of water. For cooking a trangia is the best option. The snag is that they are bulky and not that light. Also added is a half litre of fuel. All in all, a fair bit of extra weight. Recently I laid hands on a stack of large bamboo poles. The idea is to split them, cut them in to eighteen inch lengths and use them as pegs.<br />Was awake before four in the morning and watched the gradual breaking of the new day. Even Mike was awake for the solstice morning!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e8qF5eRKjf8/WUvilUSEaYI/AAAAAAAAFYo/PftveQUbJPgvRoPUsHbcxVXZU-Oe-4AMACLcBGAs/s1600/P6210011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e8qF5eRKjf8/WUvilUSEaYI/AAAAAAAAFYo/PftveQUbJPgvRoPUsHbcxVXZU-Oe-4AMACLcBGAs/s640/P6210011.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A slightly slanted photo of the new day.<br />Mike went back to sleep. Unable to sleep, I went for a walk up the beach,<br />Later that morning we heard the ominous rumble of thunder. Snug under the tarp we watched the lightning and heavy rain as the storm passed through.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SYNN5D6cPW8/WUvjZqVt8RI/AAAAAAAAFYw/h1U_-12EhQgsqbfNnIXq4nm2qSNVv0K7wCLcBGAs/s1600/P6210012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SYNN5D6cPW8/WUvjZqVt8RI/AAAAAAAAFYw/h1U_-12EhQgsqbfNnIXq4nm2qSNVv0K7wCLcBGAs/s640/P6210012.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>With the weather clearing, Mike went for a splash around in the sea. All I managed was a paddle. We where treated to seeing seals feeding and playing in the shallows. Arctic turns were very much in evidence.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vHp_h4cxEPE/WUvkOExW0vI/AAAAAAAAFY4/6aCKYg6wgLIiR1CgtfIlKFYANCF2efBXwCLcBGAs/s1600/P6210013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vHp_h4cxEPE/WUvkOExW0vI/AAAAAAAAFY4/6aCKYg6wgLIiR1CgtfIlKFYANCF2efBXwCLcBGAs/s640/P6210013.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>All in all a lovely walk and beach bivi.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yUEPxWeQGbE/WUvkgd6A6rI/AAAAAAAAFY8/XKgJnV4Ef58tomoY3KF_xY-5KmXwtYIOACLcBGAs/s1600/P6210016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yUEPxWeQGbE/WUvkgd6A6rI/AAAAAAAAFY8/XKgJnV4Ef58tomoY3KF_xY-5KmXwtYIOACLcBGAs/s640/P6210016.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Dawn Linneyhttps://plus.google.com/103954743280747187581noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7741901748146303937.post-13769065491654762952017-06-18T14:20:00.000+01:002017-06-18T14:20:52.241+01:00Innerleithen / PeeblesThis was a walk in relation to a review Mike was doing on behalf of CAMRA. They had brought out a guide to various pub walks and Mike had agreed to review a couple of the walks.. Peebles is a fair trek just to do a walk, thus Mike suggested an overnight camp would be better.<br />With the car parked in Peebles we nipped on the bus down to Innerleithen. Heading out, our route took us through the grounds of Traquair House. Plenty of superb lawns, (ideal for backpacking tents!).<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DoqKeNIWIWA/WUZ0v_uAxEI/AAAAAAAAFWU/3qGUQggnw5A6U0NZ3Yt1S1_NGJPHzzLTwCLcBGAs/s1600/P6140001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DoqKeNIWIWA/WUZ0v_uAxEI/AAAAAAAAFWU/3qGUQggnw5A6U0NZ3Yt1S1_NGJPHzzLTwCLcBGAs/s640/P6140001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>. A few folk were around but it was fairly quiet. Lucky was quite taken by the peacocks.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DiQb0P5zb_0/WUZ1NHcNQiI/AAAAAAAAFWY/6IVZBhPcEdwNpEuuGuoCnkcp9OopSfzuACLcBGAs/s1600/P6140002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DiQb0P5zb_0/WUZ1NHcNQiI/AAAAAAAAFWY/6IVZBhPcEdwNpEuuGuoCnkcp9OopSfzuACLcBGAs/s640/P6140002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YOmvQrBJ3pg/WUZ1Us7XCgI/AAAAAAAAFWc/ss1Av-7N7agTKR3ZGlfcWAANp4QetrDSQCLcBGAs/s1600/P6140003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YOmvQrBJ3pg/WUZ1Us7XCgI/AAAAAAAAFWc/ss1Av-7N7agTKR3ZGlfcWAANp4QetrDSQCLcBGAs/s640/P6140003.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Heading up through the Glen, notices welcomed walkers to the estate. The route led us on to the Cross Border Drove Road. An ancient right of way. We were in no rush and, finding a suitable camp spot we stopped for the day.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KznEBm2V8go/WUZ21RKJjYI/AAAAAAAAFWo/CpARVFWCv6gP0Wpk6C0HmJX54TK9BKIIgCLcBGAs/s1600/P6140004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KznEBm2V8go/WUZ21RKJjYI/AAAAAAAAFWo/CpARVFWCv6gP0Wpk6C0HmJX54TK9BKIIgCLcBGAs/s640/P6140004.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />A comfortable night, despite a few midges. Early morning rain saw us delaying our start a wee bit. Following the drove road, we headed uphill. Mike had a wee top to visit. Having been moving quite slow, I opted to guard the rucksacks! while he nipped up the hill. Coming around by Yellow Mire, heavy rain caught up with us. squally showers chivvied for the rest of our way.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BCGA3Pm_Hes/WUZ6EOMIDcI/AAAAAAAAFW0/hYhkWHObge0ycYDV6lrHXZshldh00fG5gCLcBGAs/s1600/P6150005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BCGA3Pm_Hes/WUZ6EOMIDcI/AAAAAAAAFW0/hYhkWHObge0ycYDV6lrHXZshldh00fG5gCLcBGAs/s640/P6150005.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>.The old road is a delight to walk, leading us over Kirkhope Law and Kailzie Hill. a lovely undulating ridge with splendid views all round and Glensax below.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u1ZpfMZ-mXM/WUZ7K5ElbYI/AAAAAAAAFXA/JBY9JXiKXkoen434mdca3SQBM9Fb0483gCLcBGAs/s1600/P6150008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u1ZpfMZ-mXM/WUZ7K5ElbYI/AAAAAAAAFXA/JBY9JXiKXkoen434mdca3SQBM9Fb0483gCLcBGAs/s640/P6150008.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>.All too soon we began to descend downwards to Peebles.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OsI55tjWLKw/WUZ7mYMmlqI/AAAAAAAAFXE/aR6ZVwwxCmQT00YvYyPu1C3dv9eUl8KcwCLcBGAs/s1600/P6150009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OsI55tjWLKw/WUZ7mYMmlqI/AAAAAAAAFXE/aR6ZVwwxCmQT00YvYyPu1C3dv9eUl8KcwCLcBGAs/s640/P6150009.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>There is some fine walking to be had in the Peebles area. Rounded, rolling hills that invite the walker to come and explore.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c84zW8uV26A/WUZ8TXpaVkI/AAAAAAAAFXM/xkw2dOKrR6o0FyJpFJJydB0sDE8lzYscACLcBGAs/s1600/P6150010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c84zW8uV26A/WUZ8TXpaVkI/AAAAAAAAFXM/xkw2dOKrR6o0FyJpFJJydB0sDE8lzYscACLcBGAs/s640/P6150010.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>There was one disconcerting thing though, the route we took was to review a walk given by CAMRA, but we never visited a pub?<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qHvgUV1kJuA/WUZ9c65B0FI/AAAAAAAAFXY/UUx_6EG2E0YMNVXhhft9vQRmyLUJQ5BLACLcBGAs/s1600/P6150013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qHvgUV1kJuA/WUZ9c65B0FI/AAAAAAAAFXY/UUx_6EG2E0YMNVXhhft9vQRmyLUJQ5BLACLcBGAs/s640/P6150013.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F0HTVg7DKrU/WUZ9m9GN1ZI/AAAAAAAAFXc/VX4eWnGtla4XeJhx0-bLbLwK2fVg10SFgCLcBGAs/s1600/P6150011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F0HTVg7DKrU/WUZ9m9GN1ZI/AAAAAAAAFXc/VX4eWnGtla4XeJhx0-bLbLwK2fVg10SFgCLcBGAs/s640/P6150011.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q1lB1D3RjSQ/WUZ9t62rjqI/AAAAAAAAFXg/wLub0Rw9nkwRNniXyg0WwMM-NgJaSJlpQCLcBGAs/s1600/P6150012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q1lB1D3RjSQ/WUZ9t62rjqI/AAAAAAAAFXg/wLub0Rw9nkwRNniXyg0WwMM-NgJaSJlpQCLcBGAs/s640/P6150012.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Dawn Linneyhttps://plus.google.com/103954743280747187581noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7741901748146303937.post-68431622323797185532017-06-08T20:01:00.001+01:002017-06-08T20:01:54.593+01:00Kielder wanderA nice wee wander proposed by Mike. There was initially a tad bit of faffing due to car parks marked on the map now being closed. The forestry commision seemed determined to funnel all cars in to a specific car park. No doubt as a handy cash cow?<br />The day was dry and quite warm with a brisk wind. The walking &nbsp;pleasant as we walked along a maze of forestry tracks.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SWZOuI935Qk/WTmaggXrM6I/AAAAAAAAFVU/vgpt6pMGOugFZQEVyF1SQh_NpS8_aJBKwCLcB/s1600/P6070001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SWZOuI935Qk/WTmaggXrM6I/AAAAAAAAFVU/vgpt6pMGOugFZQEVyF1SQh_NpS8_aJBKwCLcB/s640/P6070001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Mike had a plan in place. It was his aim to bag a couple of tops that lurked somewhere in the forestry. . After a few forays in to dense closely knit phalanxes of prickly pine trees, we eventually won through. &nbsp;The bleached bones of some other poor soul who had attempted to penetrate this dense mass, gave warning of the dire perils of our mission. Well, alright, that is exaggerating a wee bit! Mind, there was no clear route and we had to revert to Mike's gps to get us back out. Mike decided to give the second top a miss?<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XN73dxhHtJM/WTmdA4lZSkI/AAAAAAAAFVg/nG9RryuzXooYshywxfg-sv8XKb6-UdIiACLcB/s1600/P6070002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XN73dxhHtJM/WTmdA4lZSkI/AAAAAAAAFVg/nG9RryuzXooYshywxfg-sv8XKb6-UdIiACLcB/s640/P6070002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Taking a longer loop, we eventually came down by the Calvert Trust buildings. Another little bit of bushwhacking and we joined &nbsp;paths that eventually led us back to the car park at Leaplish.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UVCwHAFGdbo/WTmd59k8GEI/AAAAAAAAFVs/IXXiV7n1tsAF5xeQFxcwKa_ZteZWuSJvACLcB/s1600/P6070004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UVCwHAFGdbo/WTmd59k8GEI/AAAAAAAAFVs/IXXiV7n1tsAF5xeQFxcwKa_ZteZWuSJvACLcB/s640/P6070004.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A pleasant day's walking. Mind, I am still finding pine needles around the flat. Pine needles down one's bra are very uncomfortable!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IrHduBI-cJ8/WTmegci6cwI/AAAAAAAAFV0/j8LiVMHk7QYBlC-n3mWGpVVSRq-uemZNwCLcB/s1600/P6070005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IrHduBI-cJ8/WTmegci6cwI/AAAAAAAAFV0/j8LiVMHk7QYBlC-n3mWGpVVSRq-uemZNwCLcB/s640/P6070005.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_WejDU6uGn0/WTmenufIXjI/AAAAAAAAFV4/L-yIXodSzBA_89xPfuc1jwBXvGXgQk_rgCLcB/s1600/P6070003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_WejDU6uGn0/WTmenufIXjI/AAAAAAAAFV4/L-yIXodSzBA_89xPfuc1jwBXvGXgQk_rgCLcB/s640/P6070003.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Dawn Linneyhttps://plus.google.com/103954743280747187581noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7741901748146303937.post-14634162598332007162017-05-31T12:06:00.002+01:002017-05-31T12:21:53.386+01:00Dales way, Part twoMy original plan for Saturday was to push on to a few miles past Sedbergh. However, a rather concerned lady at the campsite warned me of storms forecast for the afternoon. A quick change of plan. The map showed a campsite at Sedbergh and I decided to aim for that. Again, it was a fine morning. Once more the day began with a spell of following river banks.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-02tJxo688gU/WS3AbVr8K-I/AAAAAAAAFR0/BLgFdYlOZgsDkq6O-MtrK5B8BA1YGoHegCLcB/s1600/P5270055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-02tJxo688gU/WS3AbVr8K-I/AAAAAAAAFR0/BLgFdYlOZgsDkq6O-MtrK5B8BA1YGoHegCLcB/s640/P5270055.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The DW passes through some lovely hay meadows. The walking is straight forward but an eye needs to be kept on the map.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4puJnSU5wbc/WS3BSdhkoHI/AAAAAAAAFR8/0JEGVDpHrGgKj0XbmFSh-JIiaO7KDjW4wCEw/s1600/P5270056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4puJnSU5wbc/WS3BSdhkoHI/AAAAAAAAFR8/0JEGVDpHrGgKj0XbmFSh-JIiaO7KDjW4wCEw/s640/P5270056.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>. Switching from following the river Dee, the DW heads up and over to descend down to Millthrop. It is fine walking on old farm lanes and bridleways. Heading up by Gate Manor, climbing through old woodlands. The views from the top are excellent.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GC3HPqhoIYc/WS50rDtlDxI/AAAAAAAAFSM/_qTYRixBsfUQk7MRwAlBs_FuMyVcJESlgCLcB/s1600/P5270057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GC3HPqhoIYc/WS50rDtlDxI/AAAAAAAAFSM/_qTYRixBsfUQk7MRwAlBs_FuMyVcJESlgCLcB/s640/P5270057.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The weather was on the change, it was close and muggy and dark clouds were starting to build in the distance. There was also the added factor that I was not doing good. Although still mobile, there was a definite need for a break.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4JQsHDhJWzQ/WS519ObtNPI/AAAAAAAAFSY/G0L52KvE6J8kMOzhT1yb--74u5qUCvxHQCLcB/s1600/P5270058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4JQsHDhJWzQ/WS519ObtNPI/AAAAAAAAFSY/G0L52KvE6J8kMOzhT1yb--74u5qUCvxHQCLcB/s640/P5270058.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The campsite was a half mile off route but that was no problem. What was annoying though was that when I arrived there it was obviously a caravan park. Worse, it was a posh one. The warden came hurrying out the moment he spotted me. His manner was, to put it mildly, frosty. "No, we certainly DO NOT take tents. Besides, we are full" Enquiring if he knew of any local campsites, the reply was blunt. " No, there are no campsite in the Sedbergh Area. You will just have to move on" What is it with these folk, they live on another planet! It may not appear much but wasting a mile was something I did not need.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zG-ys4VqrTM/WS54UVKoaZI/AAAAAAAAFSk/OfBmIxI_d68enpN7qL3SuKDa2szWj99CgCLcB/s1600/P5270059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zG-ys4VqrTM/WS54UVKoaZI/AAAAAAAAFSk/OfBmIxI_d68enpN7qL3SuKDa2szWj99CgCLcB/s640/P5270059.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />It was tempting to &nbsp;head in to Sedbergh and find a B&amp;B. Instead I pushed on.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wSsywkZySBY/WS54047cftI/AAAAAAAAFSs/ccQt_Oex5QQVmopN_rdzQWjdjUvB0J-rQCLcB/s1600/P5270060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wSsywkZySBY/WS54047cftI/AAAAAAAAFSs/ccQt_Oex5QQVmopN_rdzQWjdjUvB0J-rQCLcB/s640/P5270060.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Thunder was beginning to mutter in the distance. Not good, with a storm brewing I really needed to stop soon.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q7uunkeeyok/WS551FJ0tTI/AAAAAAAAFS0/LbJG5rdkBz8NjN6OTZgzhpFIRk3cp5HmACLcB/s1600/P5270062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q7uunkeeyok/WS551FJ0tTI/AAAAAAAAFS0/LbJG5rdkBz8NjN6OTZgzhpFIRk3cp5HmACLcB/s640/P5270062.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Taking a chance, I nipped in to the farm at Hebblethwaites. The farmer directed me to the caravan park next door. After my previous experience I was wary. However, he reassured me that the warden would unofficially accept tents if it was only an overnight stop. The warden was not available. With the first drops of rain already falling, I cast caution to the wind and got the tent up on a small bit of grass. Ten minutes later the warden returned in his car. Yelling at me from his car, it was obvious he was not happy about were the tent was. Fortunately, with the storm coming in big time, he relented after I reassured him I would be away early the next morning. Mind, it cost me a tenner. At least there was a loo and shower available. It can be a tad daunting lying in a tent with thunder and lightning all around. Worse were the gusts of wind slamming in to the tent, the rain was a deluge and to cap it all hailstones also pounded the flysheet.<br />As promised, I was away shortly after seven thirty next morning. My aim was for Burneside. Roughly calculated it is was in the region of fifteen miles.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wLekzBXPr44/WS5-_WsQosI/AAAAAAAAFTE/sv76SIObC9sXRMIC2DZeYrjAWQo2jNM3ACLcB/s1600/P5280063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wLekzBXPr44/WS5-_WsQosI/AAAAAAAAFTE/sv76SIObC9sXRMIC2DZeYrjAWQo2jNM3ACLcB/s640/P5280063.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The walking was not difficult, the DW route though appeared at times to travel a long way to get not very far! Navigation wise a constant eye needed to be kept on the map.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wMpQgamU0cU/WS5_5Tg_y-I/AAAAAAAAFTM/wPZZL-rGJE4pspvo2BdFuSvswoe70xNfACLcB/s1600/P5280064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wMpQgamU0cU/WS5_5Tg_y-I/AAAAAAAAFTM/wPZZL-rGJE4pspvo2BdFuSvswoe70xNfACLcB/s640/P5280064.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>There were some impressive red sandstone and iron viaducts to be seen along the way.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xjJ30Q3Z7tU/WS6BJz-AieI/AAAAAAAAFTY/iBY3SnWBaJsqOjRTpye5CDQts6GWyVNvQCLcB/s1600/P5280065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xjJ30Q3Z7tU/WS6BJz-AieI/AAAAAAAAFTY/iBY3SnWBaJsqOjRTpye5CDQts6GWyVNvQCLcB/s640/P5280065.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Unfortunately they are now only reminders of a time when railway branch lines covered much more of the country. They are certainly well constructed.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-brHNH49RkV0/WS6CG3X2n0I/AAAAAAAAFTg/sox87OBW_IASYXasw8JolvPHeRFbMh0zgCLcB/s1600/P5280066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-brHNH49RkV0/WS6CG3X2n0I/AAAAAAAAFTg/sox87OBW_IASYXasw8JolvPHeRFbMh0zgCLcB/s640/P5280066.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Was almost mown down by a speeding mountain biker at Crook Of Lune Bridge. The thing was, I was on the left hand side of the road. If it had been a car instead of me, he would have stood no chance.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ooOWM814z20/WS6EcanWPjI/AAAAAAAAFTs/SWXIHX-IE7so3rUwruxxzKikg5levgsyACLcB/s1600/P5280068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ooOWM814z20/WS6EcanWPjI/AAAAAAAAFTs/SWXIHX-IE7so3rUwruxxzKikg5levgsyACLcB/s640/P5280068.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>It felt something like a milestone when I eventually crossed the bridge over the M6. Stopping for a break near Holme Park farm, I settled down for a nibble and a wee doze. It was not to be. Within five minutes I had an audience of a herd of cows. Arranged in a semi circle, gazing at me in the bovine curiosity sort of manner that cows do. Nudging each like naughty school kids, they would inch forward. As soon as I made a move though they scattered.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x23eLBlgc5g/WS6X2bNnpGI/AAAAAAAAFUA/4at1-evdlrApDcsDMXZU9F1P00qmLNcDgCLcB/s1600/P5280069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x23eLBlgc5g/WS6X2bNnpGI/AAAAAAAAFUA/4at1-evdlrApDcsDMXZU9F1P00qmLNcDgCLcB/s640/P5280069.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp;It was on this section I met someone else who was on the DW. He was travelling light only doing a leg or two of the way at weekends. The guy did mention though that he found the Sedbergh to Burneside bit the most difficult navigation wise. It certainly called for a constant eye on the map. Reaching Burneside, I made for the local pub and booked in for the night. They did a very good Sunday roast.<br />It was raining when I set off on the Monday morning. Initially it was only light rain. but at times it became heavy.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bpvjQTD6pgo/WS6bKZUJhjI/AAAAAAAAFUM/E9LJrZsdSgsyZOFBePsHaSIr4hvubiX6wCLcB/s1600/P5290070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bpvjQTD6pgo/WS6bKZUJhjI/AAAAAAAAFUM/E9LJrZsdSgsyZOFBePsHaSIr4hvubiX6wCLcB/s640/P5290070.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The way up to Stavely was once more predominantly river bank walking. From Stavely onward the DW enters in to more rolling countryside. Several ups and downs, small lanes and ancient tracks. The area is more rugged than may be expected, with some fine rocky outcrops and crags. Enjoyable walking despite the rain. Once again, a close eye needs to be kept on the map.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B5kJOWxj8mw/WS6dXrr9_DI/AAAAAAAAFUc/b5xl8N6m7Ag8A5LlQDvg2kNsCGOzQ-PeQCLcB/s1600/P5290073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B5kJOWxj8mw/WS6dXrr9_DI/AAAAAAAAFUc/b5xl8N6m7Ag8A5LlQDvg2kNsCGOzQ-PeQCLcB/s640/P5290073.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>As the route approaches Bowness the paths thread in and out of a lot of private land. Signs abound,'Private, no path, keep out'. Gates were, more often than not, padlocked. Some of the narrow kissing gates were not made with backpackers in mind. They took a wee bit of shoogling to wriggle through!<br />Bowness itself remained hidden until almost the last moment.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5viQ9TKzwAg/WS6e7GF1XuI/AAAAAAAAFUo/1qyCWXij2-gGcjEOp8xHdiHkdRZtKUDCwCLcB/s1600/P5290075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5viQ9TKzwAg/WS6e7GF1XuI/AAAAAAAAFUo/1qyCWXij2-gGcjEOp8xHdiHkdRZtKUDCwCLcB/s640/P5290075.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GHmOOXuwmYE/WS6fFJIDY7I/AAAAAAAAFUs/NnKp2Dxn0v41x2vhDj77HM2lZkhFXuCGwCLcB/s1600/P5290076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GHmOOXuwmYE/WS6fFJIDY7I/AAAAAAAAFUs/NnKp2Dxn0v41x2vhDj77HM2lZkhFXuCGwCLcB/s640/P5290076.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Heading down the hill in to Bowness, I was looking forward to a cup of tea and a spot of lunch. It was not to be. The place was wall to wall with people. Experiencing something akin to a panic attack, I was on the first available bus to Windermere.<br />The mileage covered varies from which ever guide book is consulted. Overall, my calculations give an average of eighty three miles over six days. That is four whole days and two half days. Surprisingly I coped ok, but did experience one fall, which is unusual for me. At times I wobble but that is about all.<br />The journey back was interesting. No trains running from Oxenholme northwards. Buses and taxis were running a shuttle service. It was fun ending up in a taxi to Carlisle, paid by Virgin trains, I may add.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pjd4pKp7QoM/WS6jHO9aWOI/AAAAAAAAFU4/4IeD8cNvUXEOhw3TpsQRjH6Xk_QVz69sQCLcB/s1600/P5240038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pjd4pKp7QoM/WS6jHO9aWOI/AAAAAAAAFU4/4IeD8cNvUXEOhw3TpsQRjH6Xk_QVz69sQCLcB/s640/P5240038.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4Q5TKAMT3ys/WS6jRGpv6-I/AAAAAAAAFU8/G4DTy06uM78Tv_5QdKy0DJ7RF29Qkl9-QCLcB/s1600/P5240040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4Q5TKAMT3ys/WS6jRGpv6-I/AAAAAAAAFU8/G4DTy06uM78Tv_5QdKy0DJ7RF29Qkl9-QCLcB/s640/P5240040.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zFoTjE5UEE8/WS6jcidul2I/AAAAAAAAFVA/5bIVa5GCUTosoigeneggh_CqcoEG6YB4ACLcB/s1600/P5240041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zFoTjE5UEE8/WS6jcidul2I/AAAAAAAAFVA/5bIVa5GCUTosoigeneggh_CqcoEG6YB4ACLcB/s640/P5240041.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FWZAHckJ1c4/WS6joCoHaiI/AAAAAAAAFVE/dUPddXTUAaAJRM5ZRtB5jSgDYnCWINgxACLcB/s1600/P5290074.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FWZAHckJ1c4/WS6joCoHaiI/AAAAAAAAFVE/dUPddXTUAaAJRM5ZRtB5jSgDYnCWINgxACLcB/s640/P5290074.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div>Dawn Linneyhttps://plus.google.com/103954743280747187581noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7741901748146303937.post-87941401918381888842017-05-30T19:23:00.000+01:002017-05-30T19:29:29.484+01:00Dales Way, Part oneThis was the second part of my mad idea, two fairly straight forward walks, back to back, almost! Back from the first walk, a day or two sorting things out, restocking on gas and food and then away again on the Tuesday morning.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xp3gx1QXxtE/WS0nKT6c4BI/AAAAAAAAFNo/qawHw8gSZJoTMWU1Z6-5c3EvJwgK-47cwCLcB/s1600/P5230024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xp3gx1QXxtE/WS0nKT6c4BI/AAAAAAAAFNo/qawHw8gSZJoTMWU1Z6-5c3EvJwgK-47cwCLcB/s640/P5230024.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This time I was heading for Ilkley and the Dales Way. Arriving in Ilkley early afternoon to find the weather warm and pleasant. The start is a very easy route to follow. Beginning at the Old bridge over the river Wharfe the path predominantly keeps close to the river. Surprisingly once I got a few miles up stream, I saw few people out. With the recent dry weather the river was very low in places. Mind, the surrounding woods and pastures remained lush and green.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pP26wT8r1Dw/WS0ucdF2BZI/AAAAAAAAFN4/A_JKdMxDiTsp6KEct8xnoVawH4KnuztcwCLcB/s1600/P5230025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pP26wT8r1Dw/WS0ucdF2BZI/AAAAAAAAFN4/A_JKdMxDiTsp6KEct8xnoVawH4KnuztcwCLcB/s640/P5230025.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Approaching Bolton Bridge, the path takes to the main road for a few hundred yards. That was something of a nightmare, I almost got side swiped by a speeding van. By the time I reached Bolton Abbey, time was running on and I was getting tired. There had been a sign up at the bridge indicating a campsite. Walked up to the Abbey, saw a group of caravans and camper wagons in a field behind the car park. Wandered over but was informed in no uncertain manner that they were a private club and the field was for their exclusive use. It would have been nice to have a wander about but after a round of verbal from a group of youths, predominantly teenage girls, I headed back to the river and found a stealthy spot for the tent.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FKJQtx6TrQU/WS0xgv2DZHI/AAAAAAAAFOE/a4Lqoq2sELYnr1t54iPeiyIQROD_EMGsQCLcB/s1600/P5230026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FKJQtx6TrQU/WS0xgv2DZHI/AAAAAAAAFOE/a4Lqoq2sELYnr1t54iPeiyIQROD_EMGsQCLcB/s640/P5230026.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Supper was mainly fluids and a bit of cake, I was tired and not that hungry. Surprisingly there were only a few midges around.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6XOgwVPcPDI/WS0yn2EuhlI/AAAAAAAAFOQ/UASoTtCusKIXsTacnMLzi3u9SUPj4SeIgCLcB/s1600/P5230028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6XOgwVPcPDI/WS0yn2EuhlI/AAAAAAAAFOQ/UASoTtCusKIXsTacnMLzi3u9SUPj4SeIgCLcB/s640/P5230028.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Wednesday morning I was up and away early..The Bolton Abbey estate appears to cover a vast area. It was quite gentle walking on well made tracks through verdant woodland, always with the river for company.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_uefAUUdtIQ/WS1Leh3A0nI/AAAAAAAAFOg/74--5E1XyLcAj9Zvbc28qcY1eCh8YYEpwCLcB/s1600/P5230027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_uefAUUdtIQ/WS1Leh3A0nI/AAAAAAAAFOg/74--5E1XyLcAj9Zvbc28qcY1eCh8YYEpwCLcB/s640/P5230027.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The abbey trust had laid out numerous tracks and trails for for folk to explore. Maybe due to the early hour, but there was not another soul about.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SuU9mOTkuCY/WS1gQJ6rRJI/AAAAAAAAFOw/TJ571BAgPYYG6IIcaB-Qzr3O_QDN6KYDQCLcB/s1600/P5240030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SuU9mOTkuCY/WS1gQJ6rRJI/AAAAAAAAFOw/TJ571BAgPYYG6IIcaB-Qzr3O_QDN6KYDQCLcB/s640/P5240030.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The air was alive with birdsong, swallows dived low over the water catching insects on the wing.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uVIHesEizBU/WS1gvyJ5RbI/AAAAAAAAFO4/dd27s9GcNrQ75RMjK-wEm5LQq_T1C7XRQCLcB/s1600/P5240031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uVIHesEizBU/WS1gvyJ5RbI/AAAAAAAAFO4/dd27s9GcNrQ75RMjK-wEm5LQq_T1C7XRQCLcB/s640/P5240031.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>It felt good to be striding out in shorts and tee shirt. Strid wood is a lovely mixture of mature deciduous trees, including a large amount of sessile oaks. They certainly look their best at this time of year.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KkTDetQJURw/WS1iHrQGAKI/AAAAAAAAFPE/1WXuzFA_WnMPRSXLLD8nGFLP1oAxehlyQCLcB/s1600/P5240032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KkTDetQJURw/WS1iHrQGAKI/AAAAAAAAFPE/1WXuzFA_WnMPRSXLLD8nGFLP1oAxehlyQCLcB/s640/P5240032.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The Strid itself is an extremely narrow gorge, or cleft in the rock formation were the river is forced through. Apparently people have died trying to swim in its pools or attempting to jump over the narrow gap. It must be awesome when the river is in spate!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mId0d7UdHQ0/WS1kvjm6-eI/AAAAAAAAFPY/y8jqSvraPHoYfynS2iUCN8THyoZhRu5UwCEw/s1600/P5240036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mId0d7UdHQ0/WS1kvjm6-eI/AAAAAAAAFPY/y8jqSvraPHoYfynS2iUCN8THyoZhRu5UwCEw/s640/P5240036.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WGArd8Rmqy8/WS1lC-IVQNI/AAAAAAAAFPU/VV6AMOTkWV0axS-oOJSHtvw9RC3oXLRxQCLcB/s1600/P5240034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WGArd8Rmqy8/WS1lC-IVQNI/AAAAAAAAFPU/VV6AMOTkWV0axS-oOJSHtvw9RC3oXLRxQCLcB/s640/P5240034.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Beyond the Strid the path crosses the river over quite an impressive bridge. It is actually a viaduct carrying water from Nidderdale to Bradford. Got a hesitant nod from two bird watcher types as I passed them at Barden Bridge and wished them a 'good morning'! This is too good an area to hurry through, especially on such a fine day.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xX_3RmRBkBg/WS1qjH2PopI/AAAAAAAAFPk/5amZn2w649gqzsse3cds7YIXRBtifpzGgCLcB/s1600/P5240033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xX_3RmRBkBg/WS1qjH2PopI/AAAAAAAAFPk/5amZn2w649gqzsse3cds7YIXRBtifpzGgCLcB/s640/P5240033.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Burnsall has a fantastic tea shop, well frequented by cyclists. Coffee and poached egg on toast went down very well. Back on the path it was amusing to see a lady having mild hysterics as she scolded her husband for allowing the pampered pooch to jump in the river for a swim. From what I could hear, the dog had just that morning been to a doggy beauty parlour for a shampoo and set? The dog got a big thumbs up from me. Good on it, may it forever do what comes naturally!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i7ciFqTZMI0/WS1t12316rI/AAAAAAAAFPw/QA8g1fJPOFc4AgEHWs92v054QHa3qAhiQCLcB/s1600/P5240037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i7ciFqTZMI0/WS1t12316rI/AAAAAAAAFPw/QA8g1fJPOFc4AgEHWs92v054QHa3qAhiQCLcB/s640/P5240037.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>It was straight forward walking from there to Grassington. The bank holiday had certainly brought the crowds out. Stopped by Linton falls, hoping for a quiet snooze, eventually though I gave up.<br />Grassington was awash with folk, the tea rooms where overflowing, the ice cream wagons were doing well and the pubs were heaving. It was a bit too much for me and I hurried through. A mistake, I ought to have picked up some sun block. Picking up 3 litres of water from a very nice lady out pottering around her garden. It was then a slow uphill plod on to the high ground above Grassington. This is limestone country, hence me picking up water in Grassington. After a mile or so I called it a day and set up camp.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-338nNEuNZqA/WS1w8S9H6GI/AAAAAAAAFP8/UmW_twbqDmESOcn7tPvIgkxXvlu-E7nOQCLcB/s1600/P5240042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-338nNEuNZqA/WS1w8S9H6GI/AAAAAAAAFP8/UmW_twbqDmESOcn7tPvIgkxXvlu-E7nOQCLcB/s640/P5240042.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>It was a fine spot for a camp too. The sheep were friendly, dropping by to have a nose and wandering off again. Copious amounts of fluid were consumed and a wee amount of snoozing too. So far I seemed to be holding up ok, a few aches and pains, a wee bit of a wobbly earlier in the day but everything still functioning!<br />Thursday morning there was a heavy dew but with it came the promise of a really nice day.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RKOga5KK9Cg/WS10EedvVGI/AAAAAAAAFQI/h9E7vLaQoYAMH0ettjj-MKgbz8YLr6MdgCLcB/s1600/P5250043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RKOga5KK9Cg/WS10EedvVGI/AAAAAAAAFQI/h9E7vLaQoYAMH0ettjj-MKgbz8YLr6MdgCLcB/s640/P5250043.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Some fine walking over toward Kettlewell. This is a really nice area and one to be enjoyed. Picked up a few bits in the village shop, unfortunately they had no sun block.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XixT_uia-vQ/WS14jZEHgFI/AAAAAAAAFQY/uP6V4GnBByk7fpgrM_J8ezO-LwCZ4MCNwCLcB/s1600/P5250044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XixT_uia-vQ/WS14jZEHgFI/AAAAAAAAFQY/uP6V4GnBByk7fpgrM_J8ezO-LwCZ4MCNwCLcB/s640/P5250044.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />&nbsp;My one concern was were I could camp that night. Possibly at Buckden? From there on up in to Langstrothdale possible spots were very limited. It was still early when I reached Buckden. An icecream and a restock of more fluids and I pushed on. There were a couple of places I knew of. The one I had in mind was close to Beckermonds, a fairish way up the dale. &nbsp;It made for a long day but I reached the place I had in mind, just out of direct sight of the road.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FGvilU5JF24/WS14UIZIfzI/AAAAAAAAFQU/iTW0bd90MCMnVnEI-G-uvLoohrnzv1BiACLcB/s1600/P5250045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FGvilU5JF24/WS14UIZIfzI/AAAAAAAAFQU/iTW0bd90MCMnVnEI-G-uvLoohrnzv1BiACLcB/s640/P5250045.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp;Another heavy dew overnight and stuff I had washed out the night before had not thoroughly dried meant starting a little later than intended.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p9vbk76fO7k/WS15OKwjNCI/AAAAAAAAFQg/C0gV31d3xyAhs3vofN9jP1_1gHs3TSmQQCLcB/s1600/P5250047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p9vbk76fO7k/WS15OKwjNCI/AAAAAAAAFQg/C0gV31d3xyAhs3vofN9jP1_1gHs3TSmQQCLcB/s640/P5250047.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>From Beckermonds up to Oughtershaw is road walking. The road was quiet though and was no great hardship.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EnZGumNjXME/WS16OtG0_DI/AAAAAAAAFQo/XQHU91YnoX8Dd7VgYDWCAOPeiWDMda92ACLcB/s1600/P5260048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EnZGumNjXME/WS16OtG0_DI/AAAAAAAAFQo/XQHU91YnoX8Dd7VgYDWCAOPeiWDMda92ACLcB/s640/P5260048.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>It is interesting to note that the old school and chapel at Oughtershaw has submitted planning application to turn the place in to hostel/bunkhouse and to remove some later extensions made to the place. From what I can recall, the sight is grade two listed. Mind, if it is done properly and extends the life of the building, well, it may be a good thing!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-APo5NYFC7lQ/WS19LsTddNI/AAAAAAAAFQ0/5lM6PEr9lFMRi2zv_KLTHIoII0tc6MEkQCLcB/s1600/P5260049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-APo5NYFC7lQ/WS19LsTddNI/AAAAAAAAFQ0/5lM6PEr9lFMRi2zv_KLTHIoII0tc6MEkQCLcB/s640/P5260049.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Accommodation can be had at Nethergill, mainly self catering, I think? There is self serve tea and coffee available worked on a honesty system, flapjacks too. It is a steady pull up to Cam Houses where I picked up another litre of water, it was getting hot! It was then a sharpish climb up on to Cam High Road. Spectacular views all round.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KNk7xvMpaC4/WS1_kM2V2OI/AAAAAAAAFRA/jmlaGEzj69QWlt4CfWcKm-vgVA3DzZisACLcB/s1600/P5260050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KNk7xvMpaC4/WS1_kM2V2OI/AAAAAAAAFRA/jmlaGEzj69QWlt4CfWcKm-vgVA3DzZisACLcB/s640/P5260050.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp;Cam High Road is an ancient route. It was in use before the Romans took it over and later it was a medieval trade route. Unfortunately it has now been up graded to allow timber lorries access to it. On a hot day, with the sunlight radiating off its surface it was not pleasant walking.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gwZ5n0XiQek/WS20IPpM1KI/AAAAAAAAFRQ/9k3LTOhbfn8Hv7XM0NM5d1GbNr_ruddswCLcB/s1600/P5260051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gwZ5n0XiQek/WS20IPpM1KI/AAAAAAAAFRQ/9k3LTOhbfn8Hv7XM0NM5d1GbNr_ruddswCLcB/s640/P5260051.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />&nbsp;The day was turning out to be a scorcher and on the long descent down toward Far Gearstones farm I stopped for a break and promptly dozed off. Not a bad thing really. This was going to be another long day. Basically, with hospitals appointments in the latter part of the following week, I had to be out by Tuesday. &nbsp;An initial steep uphill pull past Winshaw and then a steady bit of walking on to the Black Rake Road. A steady descent down through Dent Head.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5zFoVQhta8E/WS205TqYbUI/AAAAAAAAFRY/LE6bsYPTFhc4mIfwRb26gz32n_ewW5pNQCLcB/s1600/P5260052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5zFoVQhta8E/WS205TqYbUI/AAAAAAAAFRY/LE6bsYPTFhc4mIfwRb26gz32n_ewW5pNQCLcB/s640/P5260052.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>For reasons I am unsure of, I blame it on the heat! I carried on through to Dent. That was a long day. A pint of lemonade at the local pub and on to the campsite. A shower, more fluids, a bite to eat and I was ready to snooze until it was time to take my night meds.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ccCK6hRiqVs/WS22UuwATSI/AAAAAAAAFRk/SeX4lyGKIt4v0l1_7nUHg5vjlrHYk-KRwCLcB/s1600/P5260053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ccCK6hRiqVs/WS22UuwATSI/AAAAAAAAFRk/SeX4lyGKIt4v0l1_7nUHg5vjlrHYk-KRwCLcB/s640/P5260053.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div>Dawn Linneyhttps://plus.google.com/103954743280747187581noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7741901748146303937.post-75622133231987031882017-05-22T11:03:00.001+01:002017-05-22T11:03:57.540+01:00Cumbria Way. Part twoThe following morning saw me away from the campsite fairly early. The walk around Derwentwater is a pleasant one, popular too. Being a Sunday there were a fair few folk out and about.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ic0oGc6JKRY/WSGyddzos1I/AAAAAAAAFJQ/pK9xe8pRhPMxhdntkeZ1cpKEbgOM-w0BwCLcB/s1600/P1010671.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ic0oGc6JKRY/WSGyddzos1I/AAAAAAAAFJQ/pK9xe8pRhPMxhdntkeZ1cpKEbgOM-w0BwCLcB/s640/P1010671.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Rain threatened and there were a few bits of drizzle. hardly enough for waterproofs, enough to make things damp!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RM3n7d7CXyM/WSGy90kMnoI/AAAAAAAAFJY/Ji-dQCv-5L4AuY8h_0YF3utmG9NQOFvhQCLcB/s1600/P1010672.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RM3n7d7CXyM/WSGy90kMnoI/AAAAAAAAFJY/Ji-dQCv-5L4AuY8h_0YF3utmG9NQOFvhQCLcB/s640/P1010672.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A middle aged couple, clad in lycra came up the track at great speed. Arms and trekking poles going nineteen to the dozen, a look of total concentration on their faces. Supposedly nordic walking is good for one, but it must be said, it does look a little odd!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J__3dz6U6Eg/WSHiPBR0xOI/AAAAAAAAFJo/k-KnukzgHhwnhmM_QfdymmKymAgl5hoCwCLcB/s1600/P1010674.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J__3dz6U6Eg/WSHiPBR0xOI/AAAAAAAAFJo/k-KnukzgHhwnhmM_QfdymmKymAgl5hoCwCLcB/s640/P1010674.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>.It would appear that backpackers are not such a common breed in the Derwent Water area. At least it seemed that way by the looks I received from a few people?<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8JD_pIqqGKA/WSHjUGxT7jI/AAAAAAAAFJw/lHD2IC4kjnQt6JubrfCv4rci77_i6tSpACLcB/s1600/P1010675.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8JD_pIqqGKA/WSHjUGxT7jI/AAAAAAAAFJw/lHD2IC4kjnQt6JubrfCv4rci77_i6tSpACLcB/s640/P1010675.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Coming around by the car park below Catbells, I could see literally, columns of people heading up the hill. How glad I was that I was not heading in that direction.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9HkQdomPeYM/WSHkFFoHQlI/AAAAAAAAFJ4/atQDZE3ZSvo5jQkahafc2TAH9pHYTMetACLcB/s1600/P1010676.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9HkQdomPeYM/WSHkFFoHQlI/AAAAAAAAFJ4/atQDZE3ZSvo5jQkahafc2TAH9pHYTMetACLcB/s640/P1010676.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Keswick was heaving with people. It was a case of picking up a bit of food, grabbing a bite to eat and heading back out.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JXjOHrr40YI/WSHkgUehGqI/AAAAAAAAFJ8/HxiwluXE4cELWQOQiWu7388hc1O8jU6TACLcB/s1600/P1010677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JXjOHrr40YI/WSHkgUehGqI/AAAAAAAAFJ8/HxiwluXE4cELWQOQiWu7388hc1O8jU6TACLcB/s640/P1010677.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>It is a steady pull walking up through Latrigg woods. A nice surprise was found at the carpark at the top.A lady had set up business with a specially adapted van and was selling a variety of hot and cold drinks, snacks and ice creams.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aDMnJsQeW20/WSHlnPlKLEI/AAAAAAAAFKE/xZBaeNqnuT4yaaw5e2RDX3YEWjmgW12KQCLcB/s1600/P1010680.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aDMnJsQeW20/WSHlnPlKLEI/AAAAAAAAFKE/xZBaeNqnuT4yaaw5e2RDX3YEWjmgW12KQCLcB/s640/P1010680.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The path that runs around the side of Lonscale Fell is a lovely walk. It winds around the hillside high above Glenderaterra Beck. Higher up and about a mile short of Skiddaw House are the remains of buildings and sheepfolds. Whether they are agricultural or industrial, I am unsure? They were my goal for the afternoon. Having been that way before I knew I could find a spot to camp. A bit close the path, but I was certain no one would bother me. One downside of seeing other people out on the hill was the amount of times I was told that rain was forecast for the morning!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gxdgiPmP-wM/WSHovCVhuQI/AAAAAAAAFKQ/i0rDs3JtBecBctwshOZBmdxsvFDcx4Y6gCLcB/s1600/P1010681.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gxdgiPmP-wM/WSHovCVhuQI/AAAAAAAAFKQ/i0rDs3JtBecBctwshOZBmdxsvFDcx4Y6gCLcB/s640/P1010681.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>As I was setting up camp I heard someone coming down the path. It was an elderly gent and he was having a right barney with someone. Arms waving all over the place, he was going for it bigtime. The only snag was, he was on his own, odd?<br />In the early hours of the morning I had severe stomach cramps and was decidedly ill. My suspicion was the food I had to eat in Keswick, a meat and potato pie that had obviously been heated in the microwave? The onset of rain at five in the morning decided me, I was going to have a day off. Later in the morning, sitting with a cup of tea, I could hear people heading up the hill. A guy in a very strident voice loudly announcing, 'The forecast is for the rain to clear by late morning'! Unfortunately the weather gods were working to a different script! It rained all day and was still wet on Tuesday morning, It was windy too.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5GlfxIlPTSA/WSHr7rSVCAI/AAAAAAAAFKc/_raatNyD1y0uCx6D3sPp4wz_asWRP4QrgCLcB/s1600/P1010683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5GlfxIlPTSA/WSHr7rSVCAI/AAAAAAAAFKc/_raatNyD1y0uCx6D3sPp4wz_asWRP4QrgCLcB/s640/P1010683.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The CW splits at Skiddaw House. One section runs east and goes over &nbsp;High Pike. The alternative runs west and is lower. Both link up again at Nether Row, not far from Caldbeck, which was my goal for the day. It was the eastern route I really wanted. A last day on the high fells before heading in to lowland countryside. However, with the tops clad in thick, blue, black clouds, coupled with the wind and rain, common sense had to prevail. Thus I opted for the western alternative.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8nIY3vSnpB8/WSKgED7iwNI/AAAAAAAAFK8/wiK-HA-ncDEvnQTmZS5pyDdy5T045PaywCLcB/s1600/P1010684.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8nIY3vSnpB8/WSKgED7iwNI/AAAAAAAAFK8/wiK-HA-ncDEvnQTmZS5pyDdy5T045PaywCLcB/s640/P1010684.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The Whitewater Dash waterfall looked splendid and several folk were heading up to view it.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HlOdcpevRws/WSKglGXPJRI/AAAAAAAAFLE/1Ysy0F9H4JgMisutlx1MRH1lIeaUsrl7wCLcB/s1600/P1010686.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HlOdcpevRws/WSKglGXPJRI/AAAAAAAAFLE/1Ysy0F9H4JgMisutlx1MRH1lIeaUsrl7wCLcB/s640/P1010686.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The CW does another dogleg at Peterhouse Farm, looping off on footpaths over to Orthwaite. This section saw more road walking than other part of the whole route. It was nice scenery over to Nether Row<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qV6Tn5Q5DYU/WSKi2BqI-6I/AAAAAAAAFLQ/V6b4s7uR2jYE_UDTkR5xTcLE3sK7OyAbACLcB/s1600/P1010688.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qV6Tn5Q5DYU/WSKi2BqI-6I/AAAAAAAAFLQ/V6b4s7uR2jYE_UDTkR5xTcLE3sK7OyAbACLcB/s640/P1010688.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />. It was then on down to Caldbeck. Here I threw a total &nbsp;wobbly and booked in to a pub, horrors! It was deliberate though. My special treat and the fact that I had fifteen miles to cover the following day. A bed, shower and clean clothes seemed appropriate. The Oddfellows Pub at Caldbeck was very reasonably priced for bed, breakfast and evening meal. Also, they were walker and dog friendly.<br />It was risky but I went for the full breakfast in the morning. A bit of a faff actually finding the route out of the village. Once sorted it was a steady climb up through the woods of Parson's Park. Lovely views all round and some good walking. Along drop back down following a path damaged by erosion, parts of the river bank opposite also had suffered storm damage. Once over the bridge at Sebergham, I paused for a check of the map and a wee breather. Sitting by the busy road, I noticed a group of smartly dressed people heading down the pavement. Odd in a rural environment! They stopped to say hello, ask were I was heading and so forth. Suddenly one of the chappies offered me a leaflet and asked if I knew anything about the four horsemen of the apocalypse. Making my excuses, I hurried away. Really, I had enough on my plate without meeting up with the four horsemen!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ny3dg7AZ2zI/WSKsXyyeyvI/AAAAAAAAFLw/mWu3y63JwVs02qZ00XYobdGwx6jBwQXFQCLcB/s1600/P1010690.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ny3dg7AZ2zI/WSKsXyyeyvI/AAAAAAAAFLw/mWu3y63JwVs02qZ00XYobdGwx6jBwQXFQCLcB/s640/P1010690.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Making my way over to Bell Bridge I hit a problem. There was no bridge, it had been washed away. Unless I was prepared to swim, I had to divert.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AlYNdjPVAMg/WSKtLwcJHwI/AAAAAAAAFL4/lPPnYQswmTgPOQEFJb3dI86HbV1STT7-ACLcB/s1600/P1010691.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AlYNdjPVAMg/WSKtLwcJHwI/AAAAAAAAFL4/lPPnYQswmTgPOQEFJb3dI86HbV1STT7-ACLcB/s640/P1010691.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A dogleg via Hudbeck, Breconhill and back down to Bog Bridge brought me back on track. It was now all gentle rolling countryside to Carlisle. The amount of storm damage wreaked by the river Caldew in the recent floods, was very apparent. Great areas of river bank swept away, swathes of land &nbsp;bearing the results of flood. Massive islands of debri. Boulders, rocks, mud, shattered tree trunks and tangles of tree roots. Nature can be very destructive when she wants! Mind, time will heal the scars.!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cwpoPgvX4Es/WSKwCm0d8gI/AAAAAAAAFME/WCPif88f7DYXxn_sm4EvO6kiAw3U10tNACLcB/s1600/P1010692.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cwpoPgvX4Es/WSKwCm0d8gI/AAAAAAAAFME/WCPif88f7DYXxn_sm4EvO6kiAw3U10tNACLcB/s640/P1010692.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />A pause for a cup of coffee and a slice of cake at Dalston. It was then head down and go for it mode. To be honest lowland walking has never been a favourite of mine and I wanted done. Thus it was that the pace increased as I tabbed the last few miles. After signing the book at the Tourist information office in Carlisle, it was just a case of heading to the station and a train back. My calculations later showed that I had covered seventeen and a half miles from Caldbeck.<br />That last section had to be my least favourite. The highlight of the journey was from Chapel Stile over to Borrowdale.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4hfJN9bM7Fg/WSKzjKlflCI/AAAAAAAAFMQ/gjc1Aa7badMx1wXdvMnpkg4SNst7C1XJgCLcB/s1600/P1010632.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4hfJN9bM7Fg/WSKzjKlflCI/AAAAAAAAFMQ/gjc1Aa7badMx1wXdvMnpkg4SNst7C1XJgCLcB/s640/P1010632.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--TRQZMrvxrY/WSKzqzqlOiI/AAAAAAAAFMU/NC1TMbQZiy4AuuPwb_f0dh0PksiMBrE0wCLcB/s1600/P1010638.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--TRQZMrvxrY/WSKzqzqlOiI/AAAAAAAAFMU/NC1TMbQZiy4AuuPwb_f0dh0PksiMBrE0wCLcB/s640/P1010638.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LWpiIZZPHVI/WSKz0Ff-O7I/AAAAAAAAFMY/K_rkRAhRU-MmUE-vARRhqERaeaD-lZ6lgCLcB/s1600/P1010641.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; 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margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P5ta5AW0_Kg/WSK1-tKupxI/AAAAAAAAFNE/5kxr2d7r0gAdJfTmQVHnB8ZCRLb6XK-FgCLcB/s640/P1010678.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bs8S2zBOFNM/WSK2JJdqcqI/AAAAAAAAFNI/Lwdcsp8hifoinx_MPk-k4pWKxzqjyM0nACLcB/s1600/P1010679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bs8S2zBOFNM/WSK2JJdqcqI/AAAAAAAAFNI/Lwdcsp8hifoinx_MPk-k4pWKxzqjyM0nACLcB/s640/P1010679.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E6IWiuL8DcY/WSK2SAlP7JI/AAAAAAAAFNM/1BXSXYsnli8xQAwJzqrmNILDRnjbuLWQwCLcB/s1600/P1010687.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E6IWiuL8DcY/WSK2SAlP7JI/AAAAAAAAFNM/1BXSXYsnli8xQAwJzqrmNILDRnjbuLWQwCLcB/s640/P1010687.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Dawn Linneyhttps://plus.google.com/103954743280747187581noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7741901748146303937.post-62577605226388267902017-05-21T16:02:00.000+01:002017-05-22T10:54:38.015+01:00Cumbria Way. Part one.Having had a few problems in regards to my walking recently, I was beginning to harbour doubts about continuing. The confidence sort of takes a bit of a hammering when things seemingly keep cropping up. With a lot of folk heading north for the annual TGO challenge I came up with a plan. It is always good to have a plan! What I had in mind were a couple of gentle trips. The Cumbria Way was one of those.<br />Last Wednesday saw me setting out. Getting to the start at Ulverston was a somewhat convoluted procedure. Bus to Newcastle, train to Carlisle. Another train to Lancaster, an hours wait and yet another train to Ulverston. The travelling took the best part of a day. My intention was to get fish and chips before setting off. Horrors, despite arriving just before four in the afternoon, everything was already closing for the day. Managed a cheese roll from Greggs just as they began to do the till.<br />From the onset it was obvious that this first section was not going to be easy. There were no campsites in the vicinity, B&amp;B was pricey and there was nothing else on offer.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jzB7vuXw2Fs/WR2cIh2bWFI/AAAAAAAAFFw/E8y9cdUzE1UTZBSYSFhzsIV1J3nPsThZwCLcB/s1600/P1010631.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jzB7vuXw2Fs/WR2cIh2bWFI/AAAAAAAAFFw/E8y9cdUzE1UTZBSYSFhzsIV1J3nPsThZwCLcB/s640/P1010631.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />My hope was that I could snuck the tent in somewhere for a sneaky stealth camp. Unfortunately the route went through prime farming country. Cattle, sheep and horses abounded every which way I turned.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hkt2ZTD6pgI/WR2tqyCZC8I/AAAAAAAAFGI/BP4Xb0jTQwsFWaT5dZxziiYVTQhJMRXbwCLcB/s1600/P1010633.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hkt2ZTD6pgI/WR2tqyCZC8I/AAAAAAAAFGI/BP4Xb0jTQwsFWaT5dZxziiYVTQhJMRXbwCLcB/s640/P1010633.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Finally I managed to find a wee place out of sight. Water came from a seep that had formed a small pool. It looked clear and the frogs swimming in it appeared happy enough!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X7X1t9aR51I/WR2b857Na6I/AAAAAAAAFFs/Dz-lf4Qf6MQlwZvfLTo6yb8qwnt1_3mygCLcB/s1600/P1010634.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X7X1t9aR51I/WR2b857Na6I/AAAAAAAAFFs/Dz-lf4Qf6MQlwZvfLTo6yb8qwnt1_3mygCLcB/s640/P1010634.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp;Thursday looked as if it was going to a warm day and so it proved. Unfortunately I did not have my shorts, however, I was able to roll my Ronhill's up and get a bit of sun on my legs., wow!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--AA_nzGcgyw/WR2tWPlGPII/AAAAAAAAFGE/BOJHjVdMR38Fv6UmSqltd7Hb8H4SBhdOgCLcB/s1600/P1010635.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--AA_nzGcgyw/WR2tWPlGPII/AAAAAAAAFGE/BOJHjVdMR38Fv6UmSqltd7Hb8H4SBhdOgCLcB/s640/P1010635.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />&nbsp;There was some fine walking over to Beacon Tarn. The one fly in the ointment was a dodgy stomach. A couple of pills had been taken but I was still having problems.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cEiDg8S3n4w/WR2tHNzZuOI/AAAAAAAAFGA/us8lzyHpry4GfLWPgY75PsfVaXSufJqAACLcB/s1600/P1010636.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cEiDg8S3n4w/WR2tHNzZuOI/AAAAAAAAFGA/us8lzyHpry4GfLWPgY75PsfVaXSufJqAACLcB/s640/P1010636.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>. Keeping an eye on the map the way led me on to Coniston Water. A long, undulating path brought me to Coniston Hall campsite. It was still early and I was not keen on the campsite despite the fact it was not crowded. However, studying the map, it looked as if camping spots beyond Coniston may prove tricky. Thus it was I booked in.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mAdm1ZY_9FA/WR7nmI-P0tI/AAAAAAAAFGw/cULsGbMdDzEQoVMy9oYwc3Woxni6dnARgCLcB/s1600/P1010645.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mAdm1ZY_9FA/WR7nmI-P0tI/AAAAAAAAFGw/cULsGbMdDzEQoVMy9oYwc3Woxni6dnARgCLcB/s640/P1010645.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A cluster of tents near the entrance turned out to be a large group of students. In all fairness they were just a group of exuberant youngsters. At the far end of the campsite though, a large group of school girls were camped, complete with a very large communal marquee type of thing. The racket they made at times was horrendous. Talk about a group of banshees on a night out!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Next morning I headed over to Coniston with breakfast in mind. Finding a cafe open opposite two outdoor shops I headed in. An impressive breakfast it was too. Ordering scrambled egg on toast, I was asked if I wanted wholewheat bread . It was proper bread, baked next door. No messing about, a doorstop type slice of toast with a substantial amount of egg. To cap it all tea came in a pot with extra hot water if required. It was a grand breakfast at a very reasonable price. Nipping in to the artisan bakery next door, temptation abounded every which way, cakes, breads, scones, scrumptious stuff. A bath bun was my choice for lunch. It was huge, at least six inches across!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kOahq6t4T7M/WR7wU5wnfOI/AAAAAAAAFHA/LMs_VAtIHhkKPwUAS6QnG7Xhu3NoXu40QCLcB/s1600/P1010646.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kOahq6t4T7M/WR7wU5wnfOI/AAAAAAAAFHA/LMs_VAtIHhkKPwUAS6QnG7Xhu3NoXu40QCLcB/s640/P1010646.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The way on from Coniston made its way steadily uphill to Tarn Hows. Some lovely walking through verdant woodlands.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-__W3WkZVjIc/WR8ga8GhAeI/AAAAAAAAFHQ/WOCR8Tj_dKgTouLTgc2BTP_W-2fQCIKLACLcB/s1600/P1010647.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-__W3WkZVjIc/WR8ga8GhAeI/AAAAAAAAFHQ/WOCR8Tj_dKgTouLTgc2BTP_W-2fQCIKLACLcB/s640/P1010647.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Carpets of bluebells covered the woodland floor. A brief glimpse of a red squirrel. Woodpeckers drummed on trees and bird life was in full voice.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iNqyWhfrZ7g/WR8hOB6x9iI/AAAAAAAAFHU/XdrKXhegZmYjlXJodP9ljPVnjPNE6CK2ACLcB/s1600/P1010649.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iNqyWhfrZ7g/WR8hOB6x9iI/AAAAAAAAFHU/XdrKXhegZmYjlXJodP9ljPVnjPNE6CK2ACLcB/s640/P1010649.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp; Coming up a section of path I spotted a group of school children with their teachers just ahead of me. Putting on my best mad granny smile, I said good &nbsp;morning to them. The kids dutifully stood to one side to allow me to pass and I was greeted with a chorus of &nbsp;"good morning miss", Wow, amazing stuff!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k-KC2oCjbO8/WR8i1p0JMZI/AAAAAAAAFHY/WQ-3JYECOBUw54XKrUrbT-e2l48fjjelgCLcB/s1600/P1010651.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k-KC2oCjbO8/WR8i1p0JMZI/AAAAAAAAFHY/WQ-3JYECOBUw54XKrUrbT-e2l48fjjelgCLcB/s640/P1010651.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Tarn Hows was busy, obviously a very popular beauty spot. However, there was a public loo and an ice cream van doing hot and cold drinks. Pausing for a quick break, I noticed a Darby and Jones &nbsp;type &nbsp;of couple staring in my direction. The lady tut tutted, she was dressed in a smart trouser suit, make up applied just so, blue rinse hairdo perfectly set. He was in neatly pressed slacks and blazer. Me, well, I was in scruff order, dishevelled, &nbsp;trackies rolled up above the knee, sans make up and feeling hot and sweaty. She probably was no older than me, but oh my, talk of worlds apart! She gave me a withering look but I just replied with a wide grin, I was having fun!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MiSWs4Ag9hU/WSBX7K4q57I/AAAAAAAAFH0/p3s022h5MXEjaIs4sOc5CWD86RhAD1vSACLcB/s1600/P1010652.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MiSWs4Ag9hU/WSBX7K4q57I/AAAAAAAAFH0/p3s022h5MXEjaIs4sOc5CWD86RhAD1vSACLcB/s640/P1010652.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The lady at the campsite had informed me that rain was forecast for the afternoon. Thus I hoped to at least make Chapel Stile before the onset of the rain The CW takes an odd loop before heading down to Skelwith Bridge. It heads up to High Park and then almost doubles back to head down to Skelwith Force. Coming around by Elter Water, rain began to gently fall. Footsteps quickened, my mind was made up, it would be Baysbrown campsite by Chapel Stile for the night. &nbsp;The campsite is spread over a wide area. There were only a few other tents and one or two motor homes. Decent showers and loos and cheap too, impressive! Managed to get the tent up before the rain really set in. Bliss, rain drumming on the flysheet, cozy inside with the stove purring as a brew is under way.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D0cVPPn6xhM/WSGWiP2BVRI/AAAAAAAAFIE/VD1FU5FzLyorUesArUuAx4bc7qgdJpYVQCLcB/s1600/P1010656.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D0cVPPn6xhM/WSGWiP2BVRI/AAAAAAAAFIE/VD1FU5FzLyorUesArUuAx4bc7qgdJpYVQCLcB/s640/P1010656.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">By the morning the rain had given way to soft mizzle blown up the valley on a boisterous wind. The &nbsp;tops were shrouded in dark clouds. Following the path up through the Langdales, the wind increased and the rain became heavier. Making a dash in to the loo at Old Dungeon, I stopped to take a few more pills. The car park was fast filling up as and all was all hustle and bustle as folk prepared for a day on the hill. A chappy, eyeing my full rucksack, smiled at me, "I say, you look as if you are off on a jolly ramble?" Acknowledging that I was indeed out for a few days, his smile widened, "How utterly wonderful, splendid stuff lady" He shook my hand and walked off to join his group. Noticing that the hotel did breakfasts for non residents, I wondered if a plate of scrambled egg and toast &nbsp; would help settle my stomach down a bit. Unfortunately they had just stopped serving. The lass on reception took pity on me and offered to get me a bacon sandwich and a cup of tea. She did me proud, thick slices of bread with four large slices of bacon and a pot of tea as well. The rain had eased as I started off again. It was back to just wet stuff and a strong, blustery wind. A few folk were heading up the track but all seemed to be heading up Rossett Gill The path for Stake Pass &nbsp;swings to the right.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qAS8AZZYm08/WSGiIz99ppI/AAAAAAAAFIU/63CXKCJiiBIh9CEbp1O9DaZQn--HthTlQCLcB/s1600/P1010659.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qAS8AZZYm08/WSGiIz99ppI/AAAAAAAAFIU/63CXKCJiiBIh9CEbp1O9DaZQn--HthTlQCLcB/s640/P1010659.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DSduKxDVgWQ/WSGiPWAEUHI/AAAAAAAAFIY/9vf73V7q9YEvldhj3dA4EaYCtmje_3J6QCLcB/s1600/P1010660.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DSduKxDVgWQ/WSGiPWAEUHI/AAAAAAAAFIY/9vf73V7q9YEvldhj3dA4EaYCtmje_3J6QCLcB/s640/P1010660.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The way up looks daunting, however, there is a well graded path that zigzags its way up the hill. Despite being shoved around by the wind, I actually enjoyed it! Yay, I could get used to this backpacking malarky!&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OcI2TqDtxpI/WSGjcjQsgxI/AAAAAAAAFIg/7o3VQQPNeR0oHJgkSTn24-POzTHgK_fQwCLcB/s1600/P1010661.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OcI2TqDtxpI/WSGjcjQsgxI/AAAAAAAAFIg/7o3VQQPNeR0oHJgkSTn24-POzTHgK_fQwCLcB/s640/P1010661.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A few people could be seen high up on the ridge but there were not a lot of folk around.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4l8uipqiz5c/WSGkQhDXoyI/AAAAAAAAFIo/EH0C6JEhgIsXyurzwVjpXtI_ubQeMi-tACLcB/s1600/P1010663.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4l8uipqiz5c/WSGkQhDXoyI/AAAAAAAAFIo/EH0C6JEhgIsXyurzwVjpXtI_ubQeMi-tACLcB/s640/P1010663.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It was a long descent down toward &nbsp;Rosthwaite. With such lovely scenery all around how could anyone rush it? Also I needed to have a couple of rest stops.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GlrqO5HIr5g/WSGlEifOxiI/AAAAAAAAFIw/e2vjxISV_0Q_2lZnwgFBdlpINKf5L7wQACLcB/s1600/P1010664.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GlrqO5HIr5g/WSGlEifOxiI/AAAAAAAAFIw/e2vjxISV_0Q_2lZnwgFBdlpINKf5L7wQACLcB/s640/P1010664.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Once again a well graded path spiralled down the hill.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x2kOGzJ5dTA/WSGl1zDVM6I/AAAAAAAAFI4/eXUOI09ebjQ6ytsmI6zjtJCIqqonl0qkQCLcB/s1600/P1010665.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x2kOGzJ5dTA/WSGl1zDVM6I/AAAAAAAAFI4/eXUOI09ebjQ6ytsmI6zjtJCIqqonl0qkQCLcB/s640/P1010665.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The misty wet stuff continued but appeared to be easing? There is a tea shop in Rosthwaite and it gave me incentive to keep moving. A cup of tea and a slice of cake seemed an ideal prospect!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p-2FVJbtgoo/WSGm3SsvZcI/AAAAAAAAFJA/i2zhKlOONE8NtBi_n-j6P2US6hYfYFbPQCLcB/s1600/P1010668.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p-2FVJbtgoo/WSGm3SsvZcI/AAAAAAAAFJA/i2zhKlOONE8NtBi_n-j6P2US6hYfYFbPQCLcB/s640/P1010668.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Having made the tearoom and enjoyed my tea and cake, it was just a case of pushing on for the last couple of miles to Hollows farm campsite. It was tempting to just camp in the woods out of the way. But with a dodgy stomach I opted for the campsite. It was a rather strange set up. The main camping area is next to a road and then there is another, more sloping area around the back of a small hill. The loos are there too. The showers are way up the road at the farmhouse.It would be Derwent water and Keswick in the morning.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Dawn Linneyhttps://plus.google.com/103954743280747187581noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7741901748146303937.post-65291033240541987262017-05-05T16:43:00.000+01:002017-05-05T16:43:40.760+01:00Ettrick HillsThis was one of those last minute put together trips! Mike and I were out for a walk on the Otterburn ranges on Thursday. Talk turned to the coming bank holiday weekend. A few ideas shuffled back and forward. Some quick perusing of maps and a few e mails and it was agreed we would head for Moffat. Our aim was the Ettrick hills. Moffat was busy and it took a few circuits around the town square before securing a parking spot. Heading out, we joined up with the Southern Upland Way. Initially we had a place in mind to camp. However, we were carrying heavy packs and, spotting a likely place to camp, we made our way down to it. It was a steep descent off the forestry track down through thick heather, tangled brash and loose rock.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cNZsmtCgdvc/WQx0lH5AziI/AAAAAAAAFDE/Xoi5d-QTUMg0IbhADUwkxr_qHxrWdxxrwCLcB/s1600/P4300001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cNZsmtCgdvc/WQx0lH5AziI/AAAAAAAAFDE/Xoi5d-QTUMg0IbhADUwkxr_qHxrWdxxrwCLcB/s640/P4300001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A bit of shuffling around and we had camp set up. This was our home for the next few nights. At least, anyone wanting to check out the tents would find it a daunting prospect!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IT9lJ8u8jH8/WQx27lOW5kI/AAAAAAAAFDQ/9wZz5BAcSWwDNq49PJisf-oK2eiUWznWACLcB/s1600/P4300002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IT9lJ8u8jH8/WQx27lOW5kI/AAAAAAAAFDQ/9wZz5BAcSWwDNq49PJisf-oK2eiUWznWACLcB/s640/P4300002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>On the Sunday we continued on up the Upland Way. There is a splendid camping spot by the sheepfold near to Selcoth burn. It was tempting to head back and bring the tents up there. The downside would be that steep climb out of the wee valley we were in. Splendid views all around.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qOW8EAk6-dk/WQyQVjVA8CI/AAAAAAAAFDg/wyGVvWwdkJoN9FjvWJssfRBP4bz0hmTjgCLcB/s1600/P4300005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qOW8EAk6-dk/WQyQVjVA8CI/AAAAAAAAFDg/wyGVvWwdkJoN9FjvWJssfRBP4bz0hmTjgCLcB/s640/P4300005.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9Sj6xAnnfP4/WQyQhlaRM2I/AAAAAAAAFDk/1IfFT366GGAXmLHHsBdxSJ65NUuUVrDtgCLcB/s1600/P4300006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9Sj6xAnnfP4/WQyQhlaRM2I/AAAAAAAAFDk/1IfFT366GGAXmLHHsBdxSJ65NUuUVrDtgCLcB/s640/P4300006.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />&nbsp;A spot of lunch near Park's Well. Leaving the Upland Way we headed up to the trig point at East Knowe and then carried on over West Knowe.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y523Ujtfteg/WQySACi4GEI/AAAAAAAAFDw/l2FApBVMrP0z_Bm4tzh4wTTz6CfqpdWgwCLcB/s1600/P4300013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y523Ujtfteg/WQySACi4GEI/AAAAAAAAFDw/l2FApBVMrP0z_Bm4tzh4wTTz6CfqpdWgwCLcB/s640/P4300013.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />&nbsp;The drop off back down to March Well was leg wobbly steep. A slip could have meant a very rapid descent!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O2vvolb4eEg/WQycMRG5vbI/AAAAAAAAFE4/-6372WGBP9UPQle760BqHP9-9r319LQeACLcB/s1600/P4300015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O2vvolb4eEg/WQycMRG5vbI/AAAAAAAAFE4/-6372WGBP9UPQle760BqHP9-9r319LQeACLcB/s640/P4300015.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>After a wee break to take in the scenery! Well, it was a fine day! it was a quiet daunder back to the tents and a well deserved brew.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2eLPo2gEh5w/WQyS-WfjKyI/AAAAAAAAFD4/U3nIo06KEfIty0AoCYp1mn_FXsmvaNloQCLcB/s1600/P4300007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2eLPo2gEh5w/WQyS-WfjKyI/AAAAAAAAFD4/U3nIo06KEfIty0AoCYp1mn_FXsmvaNloQCLcB/s640/P4300007.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Monday was a quiet day. Following the forestry road up to Garrogill and the ruins of a shepherds cottage. It would make a fine bothy. A place with potential, needs, a complete update, as the estate agent would say?<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3U5OUPBgEyI/WQyUt4xDUQI/AAAAAAAAFEI/n67pVZt-4-QoSuNgCx66ltbNWXjbR0qnwCLcB/s1600/P5010017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3U5OUPBgEyI/WQyUt4xDUQI/AAAAAAAAFEI/n67pVZt-4-QoSuNgCx66ltbNWXjbR0qnwCLcB/s640/P5010017.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>The way on could be seen snaking its way high up the hillside. It was steep, awfully so in places and it was just as well there was plenty of views to admire! Getting to the bealach, I was feeling shaky and let Mike and Lucky carry on to Ewelairs Hills while I sorted myself out.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KN27ZyxfUkA/WQyWe_B5bpI/AAAAAAAAFEU/vwPnrWdaXCgg6Gl_E4fgjzl3LEdxkzM7ACLcB/s1600/P5010018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KN27ZyxfUkA/WQyWe_B5bpI/AAAAAAAAFEU/vwPnrWdaXCgg6Gl_E4fgjzl3LEdxkzM7ACLcB/s640/P5010018.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This was an out and back walk, thus we were back at the tents by early afternoon. The rest of the day was spent sitting in the sunshine, drinking tea, snoozing and reading.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-10OzNXaaQk8/WQyX8ofG1zI/AAAAAAAAFEg/kVvQTfreyCcb0yLK6YdaKJWjjk8VHpgkQCLcB/s1600/P5010022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-10OzNXaaQk8/WQyX8ofG1zI/AAAAAAAAFEg/kVvQTfreyCcb0yLK6YdaKJWjjk8VHpgkQCLcB/s640/P5010022.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Tuesday morning saw us heading out. Getting back up to the forestry road with full packs was horrendous. Fighting my way through thick, tangled brash, falling in to hidden holes and clinging to clumps of heather, I eventually hauled myself on to level ground. Lungs heaving, gasping for breath, legs painful, I lay back for a few moments to try and recover some composure. Looking around, I saw no sign &nbsp;of Mike. It seems he fared little better the me?<br />It was mainly downhill back to Moffat and we made good time. The bank holiday rush was largely avoided. We saw all of three people. A pleasant bank holiday interlude.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AmiPCs85Yv8/WQybOnY0uZI/AAAAAAAAFEs/aedPdb84dK88tQArJCDy64rsaj4aveUbwCLcB/s1600/P4300008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AmiPCs85Yv8/WQybOnY0uZI/AAAAAAAAFEs/aedPdb84dK88tQArJCDy64rsaj4aveUbwCLcB/s640/P4300008.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LqnFOA3DRhs/WQybZaka_-I/AAAAAAAAFEw/x850riB2fdQ7Fr4_H5kbsrZDibxLrPjPACLcB/s1600/P4300010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LqnFOA3DRhs/WQybZaka_-I/AAAAAAAAFEw/x850riB2fdQ7Fr4_H5kbsrZDibxLrPjPACLcB/s640/P4300010.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wmyGrmOc3G4/WQycgT50X2I/AAAAAAAAFE8/BjGIi3aI_a84YkU8cMSyPgQHCETpZw5oACLcB/s1600/P4300011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wmyGrmOc3G4/WQycgT50X2I/AAAAAAAAFE8/BjGIi3aI_a84YkU8cMSyPgQHCETpZw5oACLcB/s640/P4300011.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1uJBl1DMpqQ/WQycsrOKTuI/AAAAAAAAFFA/emX56KZN9hIcsZYNfX8VMAY-8BTnDmBfQCLcB/s1600/P4300014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1uJBl1DMpqQ/WQycsrOKTuI/AAAAAAAAFFA/emX56KZN9hIcsZYNfX8VMAY-8BTnDmBfQCLcB/s640/P4300014.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1PzCg6TGiAE/WQyc2ODC1HI/AAAAAAAAFFE/5u82-PjH5mYFVrPgUqXgLskFDtsduteagCLcB/s1600/P5010020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1PzCg6TGiAE/WQyc2ODC1HI/AAAAAAAAFFE/5u82-PjH5mYFVrPgUqXgLskFDtsduteagCLcB/s640/P5010020.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1HUKYyIQdxk/WQyc_JHIoiI/AAAAAAAAFFI/-gzVXnJCpnQeF2a8DTeYKU54UPCHGgfGQCLcB/s1600/P4300016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1HUKYyIQdxk/WQyc_JHIoiI/AAAAAAAAFFI/-gzVXnJCpnQeF2a8DTeYKU54UPCHGgfGQCLcB/s640/P4300016.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vmg66_L8YHc/WQydJwMdTiI/AAAAAAAAFFM/YPSs2Coy8So3YNS37raq3YX0WjD0xaTWACLcB/s1600/P5010019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vmg66_L8YHc/WQydJwMdTiI/AAAAAAAAFFM/YPSs2Coy8So3YNS37raq3YX0WjD0xaTWACLcB/s640/P5010019.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R6aNvbzrzm0/WQydSvR81wI/AAAAAAAAFFQ/OdrPFceu6H8eb-iRTmjrvqUNvXzphIkmwCLcB/s1600/P5020023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R6aNvbzrzm0/WQydSvR81wI/AAAAAAAAFFQ/OdrPFceu6H8eb-iRTmjrvqUNvXzphIkmwCLcB/s640/P5020023.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Dawn Linneyhttps://plus.google.com/103954743280747187581noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7741901748146303937.post-60165806666889740172017-04-28T15:57:00.001+01:002017-04-28T17:27:25.556+01:00Otterburn.With the Otterburn military ranges open to the public, Mike and I agreed to a walk in that area. Setting out from Rochester, we headed up past the Roman fort. It is noticeable that many of the local dry stone walls are built with carefully dressed stone! A footpath led us up Coal Cleugh and in to the forestry. The going was rough in places but at least the footpath was reasonably signed. The Tofthouse road, marked as a bridleway, is in fact a road.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-59GszA03opg/WQNXK4nRyiI/AAAAAAAAFBw/gGhhTqjwiQQ-4kfR03btu7Iz1ox3N7IOACLcB/s1600/P4270002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-59GszA03opg/WQNXK4nRyiI/AAAAAAAAFBw/gGhhTqjwiQQ-4kfR03btu7Iz1ox3N7IOACLcB/s640/P4270002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>For most of our route it was largely on tarmac. The wide open views made the walking something of a pleasure. Also, we were able to maintain a steady pace.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-joFtNkqKJvQ/WQNYbfQ5YwI/AAAAAAAAFB8/QIkH3-Gdfxkhw8HRO5vDzPc6eQkVONzmQCLcB/s1600/P4270003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-joFtNkqKJvQ/WQNYbfQ5YwI/AAAAAAAAFB8/QIkH3-Gdfxkhw8HRO5vDzPc6eQkVONzmQCLcB/s640/P4270003.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Two young military types in a four four stopped to check on our route. They were off to a hill to blow something up. They did too, with quite a large boom!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iAL4r4Peykg/WQNZLB8UPbI/AAAAAAAAFCE/m_QJ3YJ20YoMuAHYmVImF9Jf0rsl0mCigCLcB/s1600/P4270004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iAL4r4Peykg/WQNZLB8UPbI/AAAAAAAAFCE/m_QJ3YJ20YoMuAHYmVImF9Jf0rsl0mCigCLcB/s640/P4270004.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Wide open spaces.<br />The wind was fairly blustery as we headed up past Bushman's Crag.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3Ea4r9-gGLA/WQNaQrY4vxI/AAAAAAAAFCM/2Teo58Xywt4pCLWtIVWrOw8urJ522ddHgCLcB/s1600/P4270005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3Ea4r9-gGLA/WQNaQrY4vxI/AAAAAAAAFCM/2Teo58Xywt4pCLWtIVWrOw8urJ522ddHgCLcB/s640/P4270005.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Our aim was for the trig point at Ridlees Cairn.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JvPBzZeA6gM/WQNarWmGNzI/AAAAAAAAFCQ/I-BejTePxsgPsP7bZFoUrY9k1-A_NopNgCLcB/s1600/P4270006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JvPBzZeA6gM/WQNarWmGNzI/AAAAAAAAFCQ/I-BejTePxsgPsP7bZFoUrY9k1-A_NopNgCLcB/s640/P4270006.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TbmUAKupTvA/WQNa7QiLiKI/AAAAAAAAFCU/SFU1dyNz8lIaj0JVPay-eYdwLO67VvouwCLcB/s1600/P4270007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TbmUAKupTvA/WQNa7QiLiKI/AAAAAAAAFCU/SFU1dyNz8lIaj0JVPay-eYdwLO67VvouwCLcB/s640/P4270007.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>It was then down and around to the Dere Street Roman road. A long straight stretch. A few icy showers with beautiful rainbows, chivied us on our way.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E0A_yW1DTVk/WQNcExZ8xEI/AAAAAAAAFCc/Kasyagn8xlUTtaWMUoq9NpZDAHl_RD8gwCLcB/s1600/P4270008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E0A_yW1DTVk/WQNcExZ8xEI/AAAAAAAAFCc/Kasyagn8xlUTtaWMUoq9NpZDAHl_RD8gwCLcB/s640/P4270008.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Most of it was straightforward walking with a few tussocky bits thrown in for good measure. A good workout for the legs!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IO9dFmd7wMA/WQNdg7kRa3I/AAAAAAAAFCo/qX1h9aVVLUUaEikJhpRaNd1LTj9XgF6uACLcB/s1600/P4270009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IO9dFmd7wMA/WQNdg7kRa3I/AAAAAAAAFCo/qX1h9aVVLUUaEikJhpRaNd1LTj9XgF6uACLcB/s640/P4270009.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A nice days walking covering an average of 13.5 miles.Dawn Linneyhttps://plus.google.com/103954743280747187581noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7741901748146303937.post-18237697832715061502017-04-18T19:35:00.000+01:002017-04-18T19:35:39.023+01:00Galloway hills.With easter looming ahead, it seemed a trip would be a good idea to spend a few days backpacking. The Galloway region was one I had been looking at for a while. Thus it was that I arrived at Sanquhar station on the Thursday afternoon. Actually reaching the hills from there would involve a longish walk in. No time was wasted in setting off. The pack felt heavy with five days food on board. The plan was relatively simple, to follow the road that ran up the glen by the Euchan water. Hopefully I would be able to snuck in somewhere on the way and camp for my first night. Well, that was the plan!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-34yViGxp88o/WPXsiDbDCvI/AAAAAAAAE_M/0rSgtThESLIkEPkMVrSuVqn5fRnJSfrEACLcB/s1600/P4130010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-34yViGxp88o/WPXsiDbDCvI/AAAAAAAAE_M/0rSgtThESLIkEPkMVrSuVqn5fRnJSfrEACLcB/s640/P4130010.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Signs restricting 'works traffic' to twenty miles per hour were vaguely noted but caused no concern. A new, wide unmetalled roadway branching off up the hill to the right, gave me pause for thought. Mind,the security chap, which I considered a little odd, stationed at the entrance to this road, was quite polite as I passed on the old road. The water works marked on the map proved to be quite new modernised buildings with several vehicles parked inside a fenced off area. Just beyond, the new roadway crossed, heading up the hill. It was for new wind farms being built high up on the ridges. These new roads have blighted and scarred the area &nbsp;more than the turbines themselves.<br />To compound the problems,, just beyond the roadworks, extensive forestry logging was in operation. The clatter and roar of heavy machinery filled the late afternoon air. New roadways branched off left and right. An eye had to be kept on the map. More heavy machinery was parked in newly bulldozed laybys. A couple of pickup trucks passed me heading down the glen. No one challenged me as I waved and passed on, trying to act in a purposeful and confident manner?To be honest, I was not a happy bunny. Close map reading kept me on track. A quarry, marked on the map as disused, was now back in full production. There had been a few showers of rain on the way up. This was now becoming more prolonged and it was getting colder too. finding somewhere to camp for the night was difficult. After some eight and a half miles of walking I finally managed to tuck the tent in a small spot out of the way.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qa5RiEMZHGw/WPXzgJMKNMI/AAAAAAAAE_c/GVW93QnFzTIn2EhmpzNrwOoz3Fcu710MwCLcB/s1600/P4130011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qa5RiEMZHGw/WPXzgJMKNMI/AAAAAAAAE_c/GVW93QnFzTIn2EhmpzNrwOoz3Fcu710MwCLcB/s640/P4130011.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The rumble of traffic on the nearby track started around seven thirty in the morning. Possibly the security chappies for the quarry? More roadways had been bulldozed nearby in preparation for yet more wind farms Ice in my water container indicated how chilly the night had been. The plan for the day was quite simple, to hand rail up by the Poltalian burn and fence line upwards to Blacklorg Hill. In actual fact I &nbsp;stayed on the higher ground heading up to avoid the very wet and extensive tussocks by the fence. The going was still tough though. Lines of old, narrow drainage channels indicated that at some period in time this ground had been better managed.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dodvGkeG1Nc/WPYJbRopEXI/AAAAAAAAE_s/EZv0PSlEsYk9T00NKc_G3VldVaZQC6g6gCLcB/s1600/P4140012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dodvGkeG1Nc/WPYJbRopEXI/AAAAAAAAE_s/EZv0PSlEsYk9T00NKc_G3VldVaZQC6g6gCLcB/s640/P4140012.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp; Eventually I had to contour around to Magheachen Rig. Light showers of rain had been on and off all morning. Hardly enough for waterproofs, enough to make things damp! From the Rig the bog and tussocks became intensive. To be honest I was beginning to struggle. My legs were protesting strongly. It was obvious very few folk passed this way and one cannot blame them. An old fence topped with barbed wire blocked the way ahead. It was not easy getting over it. With the weather taking a turn for the worse, it meant donning full waterproofs. So much for the weather forecast of mainly dry in all areas with a few light showers?<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h83F7UpB-80/WPYhTtwmBqI/AAAAAAAAE_8/YPfzOMOVbvUCoDvAv3f9KxTRsCKE4PgkgCLcB/s1600/P4140013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h83F7UpB-80/WPYhTtwmBqI/AAAAAAAAE_8/YPfzOMOVbvUCoDvAv3f9KxTRsCKE4PgkgCLcB/s640/P4140013.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Blacklorg Hill was a rather uninspiring top. Possibly though I am being unfair? With rain and hail bearing down on me I did not linger.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TImgeqUW8nM/WPYiNfb2WZI/AAAAAAAAFAE/NGgmOzraPPkz7weUojByopQtAKswbyBzwCLcB/s1600/P4140014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TImgeqUW8nM/WPYiNfb2WZI/AAAAAAAAFAE/NGgmOzraPPkz7weUojByopQtAKswbyBzwCLcB/s640/P4140014.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The intention had been to head down and then up to Meikledodd Hill. However, with sleet, freezing rain and hail coming in and things turning wet, I decided I had to camp.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uXlR4fS71yA/WPYjimaePZI/AAAAAAAAFAI/pi3XSeGSTewV9MKF0U-U6aX1Xg-TqutxgCLcB/s1600/P4140015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uXlR4fS71yA/WPYjimaePZI/AAAAAAAAFAI/pi3XSeGSTewV9MKF0U-U6aX1Xg-TqutxgCLcB/s640/P4140015.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>It was difficult finding anywhere for the tent. Possibly I would have been better staying on the ridgeline and risking the wind that was picking up? As it was, I was forced to lose height and descend down toward a break in the forestry that had a burn running through it. A group of roe deer were browsing in a gap between the trees. Unfortunately they were gone before I could get the camera out. At last among the wet and rough ground I found a flat moss covered spot that felt firm underneath. It was a nice little spot for the tent. Although only a short distance covered over the course of the day, some six miles, my legs were very tired. Mind, it was very rough ground that had proved hard going!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v9F1_WolWk8/WPYmYaTN1wI/AAAAAAAAFAQ/TKDkxoqJncA8UvMSqbUuey5poZ1mk9wpACLcB/s1600/P4140017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v9F1_WolWk8/WPYmYaTN1wI/AAAAAAAAFAQ/TKDkxoqJncA8UvMSqbUuey5poZ1mk9wpACLcB/s640/P4140017.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp;There was wet snow overnight and Saturday morning saw the cloud base down and with it came more sleet, hail, rain and wet snow. There was little sense in heading back onto the tops in those conditions, thus I stayed put. It cleared briefly in the afternoon, too late in the day to make a move. Conditions worsened overnight. By early morning it was snowing heavily.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8IsG-7Eyblw/WPYqXeoY_kI/AAAAAAAAFAc/uiNliiIixKIOJGR5MWHE_RjRdRa2Hls7ACLcB/s1600/P4160019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8IsG-7Eyblw/WPYqXeoY_kI/AAAAAAAAFAc/uiNliiIixKIOJGR5MWHE_RjRdRa2Hls7ACLcB/s640/P4160019.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A study of the map had given me an escape route and that really was my only option. As I packed up on the Sunday morning, the snow cleared, more or less. The cloud base dropped and things turned wet and not nice. My route involved another spell with the killer tussocks and quivering bogs! The plan was simple, another case of hand railing. It involved following an old fence line that bordered the block of forestry uphill and then swinging off to follow another fence downhill between a large break in the trees. This in turn would lead to a forestry track lower down. Simple in theory, not quite so in reality. For a start, the cloud base dropped. This was not just thick mist, I could barely make out the fence on my left, even though only a few feet from it. Thick, dense clag and wet with it. Occasionally the ghostly outline of the trees appeared and disappeared, spectral like, spooky in a way! Things got difficult near the top end of the forestry block. &nbsp;Tree harvesting had begun. The fence had disappeared, worse, heavy machinery had churned the ground in to a quagmire. It took a bit of jiggling around to pick up the remains of the fence I wanted and establish I was on course. A long, difficult descent down the hill followed. Where possible I stuck with narrow deer tracks. A couple of times I hit really nasty boggy bits. As the ground began to level out I was certain the track was nearby. The growl of a four four and a vehicle appearing out of the gloom directly ahead of me was a pleasure to see. The startled look on the drivers face was quite amusing.<br />The murk was not so dense lower down and for once it was something of a pleasure to to be on a terra firma track. It was then a case of heading down and joining up with the Southern Upland Way. The rain continued unabated but at least there was some visibility! Met a mountain biker heading for a few of the forestry trails. He mentioned that a farm further down had a sign out offering tea, coffee and light refreshments. My step quickened a bit at the thought of a cuppa and slice of cake. Sure enough, at Polgown the sign was there for all to see, 'just knock' &nbsp;was the instruction given. This I duly did, no answer. Knocked louder but no response. There were cars in the driveway but no one around, odd?.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vf-H_PcPtc4/WPZXP3reh6I/AAAAAAAAFAs/dqPEGQbuTVIS6IA6UeQ9vT4K1v1ywA_kwCLcB/s1600/P4160020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vf-H_PcPtc4/WPZXP3reh6I/AAAAAAAAFAs/dqPEGQbuTVIS6IA6UeQ9vT4K1v1ywA_kwCLcB/s640/P4160020.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Disappointed, I turned away. The route now led uphill by Cadgers Knowe and Glenmaddie Craig. It was not a difficult or steep climb, just a steady upward plod. On tired legs though it felt a long haul.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OOi5WMOFrcw/WPZYqTYqXhI/AAAAAAAAFA4/0y5BjoJyVNsGOphYEpzXa4kAYg2AsXI7gCLcB/s1600/P4160023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OOi5WMOFrcw/WPZYqTYqXhI/AAAAAAAAFA4/0y5BjoJyVNsGOphYEpzXa4kAYg2AsXI7gCLcB/s640/P4160023.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp; Once over the top it was a pleasure to see ample spots to camp for the night and I was not long in setting up the tent. A testing sort of day, difficult at times. A distance of some nine miles covered.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RBFil5-YxFI/WPZZhbv2TwI/AAAAAAAAFA8/HaozHxHHFCEMkpPjGiRL4j8Jc8YJSdlDQCLcB/s1600/P4160026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RBFil5-YxFI/WPZZhbv2TwI/AAAAAAAAFA8/HaozHxHHFCEMkpPjGiRL4j8Jc8YJSdlDQCLcB/s640/P4160026.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>By morning the rain had cleared away and it was a straightforward walk back to Sanquhar. Not a bad trip, although I seem to have made a bit of a meal of it. Mind, I suppose getting that wee bit older adds to the factor?<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--TaMuDwbdOg/WPZaab7rAGI/AAAAAAAAFBA/9wc_jHMu5JYsZ-6AjnedqJMQCfpvznA8ACLcB/s1600/P4140016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--TaMuDwbdOg/WPZaab7rAGI/AAAAAAAAFBA/9wc_jHMu5JYsZ-6AjnedqJMQCfpvznA8ACLcB/s640/P4140016.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nTTrI6IkT4I/WPZaktKon6I/AAAAAAAAFBI/FCsAGgiOJm8u8xHlgT5Cmhr3-09cLrxYQCLcB/s1600/P4160018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nTTrI6IkT4I/WPZaktKon6I/AAAAAAAAFBI/FCsAGgiOJm8u8xHlgT5Cmhr3-09cLrxYQCLcB/s640/P4160018.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bLyN4bKL6KM/WPZau28VC9I/AAAAAAAAFBM/pdHGNbqLVc0ilfqdzv9JOO4RO3pjjiJygCLcB/s1600/P4160024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bLyN4bKL6KM/WPZau28VC9I/AAAAAAAAFBM/pdHGNbqLVc0ilfqdzv9JOO4RO3pjjiJygCLcB/s640/P4160024.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ksQ57lOoNME/WPZa3iWw-8I/AAAAAAAAFBQ/xE2iawm-WMgmVXlfWYKT4CnO1QCYVF9pgCLcB/s1600/P4160025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ksQ57lOoNME/WPZa3iWw-8I/AAAAAAAAFBQ/xE2iawm-WMgmVXlfWYKT4CnO1QCYVF9pgCLcB/s640/P4160025.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Dawn Linneyhttps://plus.google.com/103954743280747187581noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7741901748146303937.post-13970594989348059802017-04-04T13:58:00.000+01:002017-04-05T14:45:25.598+01:00The elephant treesThis Saturday saw the ruby wedding anniversary of Mike and Margaret. A knees up was arranged complete with a ceilidh band. Many folk attended and there was much music and merriment. We wish them well for the next forty.<br />Mike had suggested a walk in Weardale on the Sunday. After a substantial all day breakfast, re the kind that sustained one for the rest of the day! we set off, possibly a little later than intended? The car was parked in Wolsingham and soon we heading up out of the dale. Our goal was the elephant trees, a popular local landmark that sits on the northern edge of Pikeston Fell.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mZY-84Z1_NU/WONQJBmbWgI/AAAAAAAAE98/B03RX9672Twd1FU4F6LyxEWRFeb15iGTQCLcB/s1600/P4020001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mZY-84Z1_NU/WONQJBmbWgI/AAAAAAAAE98/B03RX9672Twd1FU4F6LyxEWRFeb15iGTQCLcB/s640/P4020001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This is really Mike's home turf and there was no need for maps or map reading. Thus we were able to maintain a steady plod. Bridleways and footpaths led us up past Towdy Potts farm. A gradual climb brought us up on to Pikeston Fell and the elephant trees .<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RJhi1NAJwP4/WONRrNEZiwI/AAAAAAAAE-I/iSDze0zZM7UojhDcQvTbk42AWG1ifUyjQCLcB/s1600/P4020004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RJhi1NAJwP4/WONRrNEZiwI/AAAAAAAAE-I/iSDze0zZM7UojhDcQvTbk42AWG1ifUyjQCLcB/s640/P4020004.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A pause for a cuppa and a nibble, neither of us fancied lunch due to said breakfast. Our way led us on along the ridge and down to Fine Gill and on toward Bollihope.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_WWb-y1Xhzg/WOOTJ5vlHCI/AAAAAAAAE-Y/culRm71qoUE1fCC6Q9dL5znJO9zG_j-GQCLcB/s1600/P4020005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_WWb-y1Xhzg/WOOTJ5vlHCI/AAAAAAAAE-Y/culRm71qoUE1fCC6Q9dL5znJO9zG_j-GQCLcB/s640/P4020005.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />It was pleasant walking following the valley back.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O1HC2wCEljA/WOOTmBdm3PI/AAAAAAAAE-c/ClV7wDJIRH0h5eLvtgvxPKTCOlva7F6dQCLcB/s1600/P4020007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O1HC2wCEljA/WOOTmBdm3PI/AAAAAAAAE-c/ClV7wDJIRH0h5eLvtgvxPKTCOlva7F6dQCLcB/s640/P4020007.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The afternoon sunshine had the promise of some warmth in it. Everything is peaceful now but at one time the whole area was a centre of industry. Mines and quarries abound, nature gradually healing the scars.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UD1d3VOXIdU/WOOUrxp-ajI/AAAAAAAAE-g/416Yy8O56ooJ4M85GyQXw6oYi1OrL35HwCLcB/s1600/P4020008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UD1d3VOXIdU/WOOUrxp-ajI/AAAAAAAAE-g/416Yy8O56ooJ4M85GyQXw6oYi1OrL35HwCLcB/s640/P4020008.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Cowboy Pass proved to be a massive pillar of rock where the old railway bed wove its way around the quarry floor.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GPUJJSpvHhA/WOOVZ9El3gI/AAAAAAAAE-k/02-vW0MRshwqzozTfH1IpXoCUAHSi7VQwCLcB/s1600/P4020009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GPUJJSpvHhA/WOOVZ9El3gI/AAAAAAAAE-k/02-vW0MRshwqzozTfH1IpXoCUAHSi7VQwCLcB/s640/P4020009.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A pause for another cup of coffee by Harehope quarry and then it was footpaths through grassy meadows back to Wolsingham. A pleasant afternoons walk of just over eleven miles.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VlQxzbpAMwY/WOOWkDMsJWI/AAAAAAAAE-o/8WJO_U70RaUuITjn_4CBAYEAJ1zQvzaxwCLcB/s1600/P4020002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VlQxzbpAMwY/WOOWkDMsJWI/AAAAAAAAE-o/8WJO_U70RaUuITjn_4CBAYEAJ1zQvzaxwCLcB/s640/P4020002.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dGEvGyZpd6s/WOOWuknWxbI/AAAAAAAAE-s/T3F2vp170hcrnaYSlMaGr-rxg0zYoBKbACLcB/s1600/P4020003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dGEvGyZpd6s/WOOWuknWxbI/AAAAAAAAE-s/T3F2vp170hcrnaYSlMaGr-rxg0zYoBKbACLcB/s640/P4020003.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Upper reaches of Weardale<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-90v-icaDMRw/WOOW8L6owMI/AAAAAAAAE-w/lUJWh2Zg8zY1qevr_KtnpZBAzyoYybwVwCLcB/s1600/P4020006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-90v-icaDMRw/WOOW8L6owMI/AAAAAAAAE-w/lUJWh2Zg8zY1qevr_KtnpZBAzyoYybwVwCLcB/s640/P4020006.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Dawn Linneyhttps://plus.google.com/103954743280747187581noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7741901748146303937.post-67886457137767901832017-03-31T19:22:00.000+01:002017-03-31T19:22:35.785+01:00Alwinton wanderAlwinton in the Coquet valley is a lovely area much frequented by the walking fraternity. Mike had proposed a walk that led over Lords Seat and on to Nettlehope Hill. However, even before setting out we had to don waterproofs. It was one of those mild days of showers and general dampness whereby one becomes rapidly overheated cocooned in waterproofs.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CWYmLBvcw8U/WN6blfdN2bI/AAAAAAAAE9E/KqDerrclSDwEXrKDVcaSauSxdf4JQ4slgCLcB/s1600/P3290001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CWYmLBvcw8U/WN6blfdN2bI/AAAAAAAAE9E/KqDerrclSDwEXrKDVcaSauSxdf4JQ4slgCLcB/s640/P3290001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Coquet valley<br />With the weather as it was we felt disinclined to push on to Nettlehope. A leisurely lunch and then we wandered on over to the trig point at Green Side.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MoVg_iB5LE8/WN6cn0p-6WI/AAAAAAAAE9M/2yk1qP2UYyQUl9O77BcAQW1j5x5elQR6wCLcB/s1600/P3290002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MoVg_iB5LE8/WN6cn0p-6WI/AAAAAAAAE9M/2yk1qP2UYyQUl9O77BcAQW1j5x5elQR6wCLcB/s640/P3290002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The resonating boom of heavy artillery over on the ranges gave us a momentary start.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N_uogZiSpao/WN6dJeMnwSI/AAAAAAAAE9Y/Ge_keZjOpN4To6zDNuWWgbmn_udFJNiCwCEw/s1600/P3290004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N_uogZiSpao/WN6dJeMnwSI/AAAAAAAAE9Y/Ge_keZjOpN4To6zDNuWWgbmn_udFJNiCwCEw/s640/P3290004.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />From the trig point it was an easy wander on to the Pass Peth and back to Alwinton.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7NYAL4zTnz0/WN6ds2YMgJI/AAAAAAAAE9c/iom8KKToK_sGoibnI9hqRglJFKe0uFPdQCEw/s1600/P3290003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7NYAL4zTnz0/WN6ds2YMgJI/AAAAAAAAE9c/iom8KKToK_sGoibnI9hqRglJFKe0uFPdQCEw/s640/P3290003.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BBbWeIsqzDE/WN6eL9BFX7I/AAAAAAAAE9k/Jrd-uDZIVyEyDqluLv2vewf8U06CMD3UgCLcB/s1600/P3290005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BBbWeIsqzDE/WN6eL9BFX7I/AAAAAAAAE9k/Jrd-uDZIVyEyDqluLv2vewf8U06CMD3UgCLcB/s640/P3290005.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Dawn Linneyhttps://plus.google.com/103954743280747187581noreply@blogger.com4